Bell Helicopter and Air Methods have announced plans for a strategic alliance, beginning with development of an emergency medical services (EMS) version of the Bell 427 light twin-turbine helicopter.
The 427 will be available with an interior supplied by the Products division of EMS specialist Air Methods and with approval for single-pilot instrument flight rules operation. The EMS configuration is set to be operational by the year-end.
Denver, Colorado-based Air Methods will be the "preferred provider" for customers wanting an EMS 427. The two companies plan to co-operate on EMS versions of other Bell products and the helicopter manufacturer will assist Air Methods' Products division in its diversification efforts.
The 427 has a high unobstructed cabin, can be loaded from either side, has a comfortable 99cm (39in) loading height and can carry up to four medical attendants.
The aircraft, certificated earlier this year, joins a growing line of light twins entering the EMS market, including the Eurocopter EC-135, the MD Helicopters Explorer. Corporate, commuter and cargo variants are also available.
Source: Flight International
