ER News: Bell marks 100th Bell 505 European sale

Bell is celebrating its 100th Bell 505 sale.

Bell has signed a signed purchase agreement for the 100th Bell 505 in Europe to be delivered to private operator, Adam Fawsitt. The sale is one of four Bell 505 purchase agreements – all for UK private operators – signed at European Rotors 2024 in Amsterdam.

Robin Wendling, the manufacturer’s new MD, Europe, Commercial Business said:  “This achievement serves as a testament to the regional demand for the aircraft’s technology, versatility and performance. The Bell 505 has been instrumental to Bell’s growth in Europe.”

New owner UK business man, Fawsitt said he was searching for a single-engine turbine aircraft, with “incredible” performance, advanced avionics, modern technology and great looks.

“I’ve enjoyed working closely with the Bell team and their United Kingdom Independent Representative, HelixAv to specify my perfect helicopter, and look forward to flying the 100th Bell 505 in Europe,” said Fawsitt.

Meanwhile, at Farnborough Air Show 2024 in July Bell announced multiple new Bell 505 orders to operators in Spain, Switzerland, Estonia and UK. Bell also revealed the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) had certified the Garmin’s GFC 600H flight control system on the Bell 505. This enabled European customers to use autopilot capabilities for this platform.

Last month, Bell Textron reported third-quarter (Q3) revenue up by 23% to $929m, driven by increased commercial and  helicopter sales.