Singapore Airshow (February 20, 2024) - Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, announced the delivery of a highly customized Bell 429 helicopter to Sky Yard Aviation Corporation in the Philippines. The delivery of this aircraft, completed at the end of 2023, brings the total number of Bell 429 helicopters operating in the Philippines to twelve.

This particular Bell 429 has been outfitted to Sky Yard's exact specifications, featuring custom paint and interiors with bespoke interior fittings tailored to meet their private aviation needs. The Bell 429 is Bell's latest light twin helicopter, equipped with a fully integrated glass cockpit for critical flight information at a glance, enhancing situational awareness and safety.

“Throughout the sales process, it was exciting to see the Sky Yard and Bell design teams collaboratively develop a unique aircraft incorporating the owner's tastes and sensibilities that also supported their business and lifestyle needs,” said Sameer Rehman, managing director, Asia Pacific. “The Philippines remains a key growth market for Bell and especially the Bell 429. We are proud to see Philippine corporations recognize the value the Bell 429 brings in terms of safety, reliability and comfort.”

“Bell’s user-friendly approach and long history working in the Philippine rotorcraft industry aided me in seamlessly designing our Bell 429. The Bell 429’s cutting edge technology coupled with Bell’s excellent customer service ensured a smooth process, cumulating in a helicopter that goes beyond expectations,” said Captain Louie Leonardo Ibarra, president, Sky Yard Aviation Corporation.

The Bell 429 is the first helicopter certified through the MSG-3 process, resulting in reduced maintenance costs for operators. It also features a spacious cabin with extra-large side doors, as well as IFR capability for single or dual pilot operations.

With exceptional speed, range, hover performance and enhanced safety margins from its fully integrated glass cockpit and advanced systems, the Bell 429 can be configured for executive/VIP transport, emergency medical services, law enforcement and utility operations. To date, over 450 Bell 429s have been delivered to customers worldwide.