FORT WORTH, TEXAS (February 22, 2012) – Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. company (NYSE: TXT), announced today the delivery of two Bell 429s, one to the Nigeria Police Air Wing (NPAW) and another to the Nigeria Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). These Nigerian deliveries are the first 429 deliveries on the continent of Africa. NPAW will utilize the Bell 429 for general law enforcement, surveillance and force projection. NEMA will fly the aircraft for disaster relief and humanitarian support missions.
“Our Nigerian customers are thrilled to be the first Bell 429 operators in Africa. The Bell 429 is the most technologically advanced and capable light-twin helicopter in the marketplace and will serve the NPAW and NEMA well for many years to come,” said Robert Prentice, vice president, Aircraft Sales, Africair, Inc., a Bell Helicopter independent representative in Africa. “They are particularly impressed with Bell Helicopter’s reputation for exceptional product support.”
The NPAW and NEMA selected the Bell 429 for is large cabin size, state-of-the-art avionics, its smooth and fast ride, and the EASA-approved Bell Helicopter maintenance program that ensures superior post-delivery support and service.
NPAW is a long-standing Bell Helicopter customer, having operated several Bell helicopter models including the Bell 47, 206, 427, 412, and now, the Bell 429. Both NPAW and NEMA formally accepted the Bell 429s in Piney Flats, Tenn. at Bell Helicopter’s customizing facility. Final delivery of the aircraft took place upon completion of EASA-approved customizations.
The Bell 429 is the world’s newest and most advanced light twin-engine helicopter. It has conducted extensive flight demonstrations in every continent, except Antarctica, and has been certified in more than 40 countries. With configuration options ranging from VIP to HEMS, law enforcement, utility and oil & gas, the Bell 429 offers superior mission capability and adaptability.
