Bell outlines progress on its key projects
Bell Helicopter announced upgrades for the in-service 206L LongRanger and the Model 407 and 412 during a press conference here Monday.

Bell Helicopter announced upgrades for the in-service 206L LongRanger and the Model 407 and 412 during a press conference here Monday. The U.S.-based manufacturer also said the 429 should gain certification late this year.

The Bell 206L will benefit from structural and performance upgrades for the fielded aircraft, while the Model 407 will receive a glass cockpit option. Meanwhile, Bell has applied for European certification for the 412EP. Company officials here gave only outlines, but more details on the upgrades will probably become available in a few days at the Heli-Expo convention in Houston, Texas.