Rotorcraft
Bell 525 Certification on Horizon This Year
Bell is accelerating hiring, filling the production line, and preparing for training as the 525 Relentless reaches the final throes of certification.
Bell 525
Bell 525

After remaining quiet over the past year on a potential certification date for the 525 Relentless, Bell executives now say they expect U.S. FAA approval by the end of this year. While stressing the timeline ultimately depends on the FAA, Bell president and CEO Mitch Snyder reported “great progress” during a recent media day in Fort Worth, Texas. “Our intent is to certify this year and we’re going to keep flying and working hard with the FAA,” he said.

Bell (Booth B5504) introduced the 525 in 2012, carving a new niche in the super-medium class that could compete against large helicopters in markets such as oil and gas or in a range of other sectors, including corporate, SAR, troop transport, and public safety. The largest civil helicopter that Bell has built, the 525 can fly up to 580 nm, reach a speed of 160 kts, and carry 16 passengers with two crew.