Bell Textron announced the order of the first Bell 407GXi helicopter in India to TransBharat Aviation, one of India’s most established non-scheduled rotary-wing operators. Founded in 1990, TransBharat Aviation operates a fleet that includes the iconic Bell 206B3 and the Bell 407.
“The sale of the first Bell 407GXi in India reflects the confidence that operators like TransBharat Aviation place in Bell aircraft,” said David Sale, managing director, Asia Pacific, Bell. “This aircraft represents the ideal combination of advanced avionics, exceptional performance, and reliability for the diverse and challenging missions flown across India. We are honored to support TransBharat Aviation as they continue to set new benchmarks in the Indian aviation industry.”
TransBharat Aviation’s Bell 407GXi will join a global fleet of more than 1,500 Bell 407s that have collectively logged over six million flight hours across utility, corporate, air medical, and public safety missions worldwide.
“TransBharat Aviation has always been committed to delivering excellence in aviation, and the addition of the Bell 407GXi to our fleet is a reflection of that commitment,” said Siddharth Shankaran, CEO, TransBharat Aviation. “This aircraft not only enhances our operational capabilities but also strengthens our ability to serve communities right across India. We are excited to bring this state-of-the-art platform to the country and believe the 407GXi will be instrumental in connecting underserved communities, including through our participation in the UDAN regional connectivity scheme.”
Czech Ministry of Interior signs contract for 11 Airbus H145 helicopters
(IMAGE: Airbus)
The Czech Ministry of Interior and Airbus Helicopters have signed a contract for 11 five-bladed H145 helicopters, marking a significant milestone in the modernisation of the Czech Republic’s public safety infrastructure. These state-of-the-art multi-role aircraft will be operated by the Czech Police Aviation Service, serving as the backbone of its fleet for law enforcement, search and rescue, and emergency medical missions. The comprehensive agreement encompasses not only the delivery of the helicopters but also an extensive training and logistics package to ensure seamless operational integration.
“We are honoured that the Czech Ministry of Interior has chosen the H145 to support its vital missions. As the Czech police currently operate the H135, transitioning to the H145 is the logical next step in their fleet’s evolution, allowing crews and maintenance teams to benefit from a high degree of commonality and ensure seamless operational readiness from day one,” said Thomas Hein, Head of Europe Region at Airbus Helicopters. “This agreement highlights the H145’s versatility as a multi-mission aircraft, capable of shifting quickly from demanding police work to life-saving rescue duties. In choosing the H145, the Czech police forces are joining a large number of law enforcement operators across Europe who have placed their trust in this platform, including several state police forces in Germany, the French Gendarmerie, and the Lithuanian Border Guards,” he added.
Airbus and the Czech Republic share a significant 25-year history. Airbus recognises the country’s strategic importance within the region, as well as its robust capabilities and expertise that continue to power the future of aviation. Airbus currently sources over €200 million worth of goods from the Czech Republic annually, making it a key contributor to the production of our commercial aircraft.
The Czech Police Aviation Service is a long-standing operator of Airbus products, currently utilising a fleet that includes nine H135 family helicopters. This fleet will be replaced by the five-bladed H145, which will significantly enhance their tactical range and lifting capacity while streamlining maintenance through advanced digital systems.
In total, there are more than 1,800 H145 family helicopters in service, logging a total of more than 8.5 million flight hours. Powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines, the H145 is equipped with a full authority digital engine control (FADEC) and the Helionix digital avionics suite. It includes a high performance 4-axis autopilot, increasing safety and reducing pilot workload. Its particularly low acoustic footprint makes the H145 the quietest helicopter in its class, while its CO2 emissions are the lowest amongst its competitors. More than 200 H145 helicopters are in service around the world in public service and law enforcement missions.
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