IFR-capable Bell 429 makes debut today
The Bell 429, a new light twin helicopter derived from the Bell 427i, will be dramatically unveiled at an 11:30 a.m.

The Bell 429, a new light twin helicopter derived from the Bell 427i, will be dramatically unveiled at an 11:30 a.m. press event today at Bell Helicopter’s booth, No. 1087 in Hall D. Bell announced the 427i, an IFR-capable version of the 427, less than one year ago at Heli-Expo 2004.

Hidden behind large, translucent curtains are two 429 mockups, in executive and aeromedical configurations. “Follow the noise and light to the unveiling,” said Mike Redenbaugh, Bell CEO, at a preshow press conference yesterday afternoon. Bell has already logged more than 90 orders for the 429, most of them converted from orders for the 427i, which the 429 will replace.