Made in Amarillo, Texas: The Team Behind the Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey

^{Bell’s CV-22 Nacelle Improvement Team pose in front of a V-22}

Driving through West Texas’ Route 66, it isn’t uncommon to look out the window and see the Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey soaring in the sky. Amarillo, Texas, or more commonly known as ‘Rotor City, USA’, is home to Bell’s Amarillo Assembly Center. Nestled in the Texas Panhandle, the world-class manufacturing plant is one of the leading assembly hubs that brings the Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey to life.

For Bell’s Amarillo V-22 team, being able to work on the innovative aircraft is all about supporting the warfighter while continuing to honor the legacy and culture that the aircraft brings to the Amarillo community.

“I come into work every day and I feel an immense sense of pride that I get to work on an incredible platform that’s ahead of its time. Knowing that by building the V-22, we are supporting the warfighter saving lives, is why we do what we do,” said Culley Shafer, V-22 assembly manager, Bell. “Even when I’m at home with my family, every time we hear the distinct sound of a V-22 flying by, we all run outside to watch it. It’s part of the Amarillo experience. We are proud to serve our V-22 customers located throughout the world all the way from the Texas Panhandle.”

All variants of the V-22 model – MV, CV, and CMV are assembled at Bell’s Amarillo Assembly Center. Known as the world’s most versatile aircraft, the V-22 is actively participating in combat, humanitarian, and VIP transport missions worldwide. To date, the Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey has completed over 700,000 flight hours.

“For more than 30 years, the Osprey has combined best-in-class technologies with unrivaled speed and durability. I am so thankful to be a part of the Bell V-22 team, where the ideas and intellect of our engineers and suppliers come together through the hands of gifted mechanics, electricians, and quality team members,” said James McCarty, V-22 technical lead, Bell. “Our team continues to rise to the occasion and exceeds industry standards every day.”

Bell’s Amarillo Assembly Center is the final assembly and delivery hub for Bell’s military products, including the Bell AH-1Z and Bell UH-1Y, as well as the future assembly hub for the Bell 525, the Bell V-280, and the Bell 360. To learn more about the Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey, check out 22 Fast Facts on the Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey.

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