FIDAE – Santiago, Chile (April 7, 2026) Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today at FIDAE 2026 that the Bell 505 has set a new record for the number of aircraft orders in Latin America in 2025. This achievement highlights the growing demand the region has seen for the Bell 505 and its multi-mission capabilities.
“This milestone is a proud achievement for Bell, showcasing the trust we have with our customers and the exceptional efforts of our team,” said John Ramos, managing director, Latin America. “The Bell 505 has been a highly sought after aircraft in Latin America since its introduction to the market, and that really highlights how well it meets the needs of such a diverse region while also offering exceptional performance and adaptability.”
In the Southern Cone, there are more Bell 505s in operation than any other area in Latin America, making Bell’s support network critical to the success of the Bell 505. Through a system of customer service and authorized maintenance facilities, Bell delivers reliable, around-the-clock support that builds trust and confidence. This infrastructure strengthens the ownership experience and distinguishes Bell, highlighting the Bell 505’s versatility while cultivating long-term customer relationships that lead to repeat sales, new sales and customer upgrades.
The Bell 505 was introduced in 2014 and certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in 2017. There are now more than 600 Bell 505s operating in more than 66 countries on six continents, surpassing 300,000 total fleet flight hours. With a speed of 125 knots (232 km/h) and a useful load of 1,500 pounds (680 kg), the Bell 505 is designed to be easy to fly while providing significant value to the operator and best-in-class cabin visibility. The customer-driven design of the aircraft places safety, performance and affordability at the forefront, blending proven systems with advanced technology and a sleek, modern design. Visit the Bell product page to learn more.
Follow along with Bell during FIDAE 2026.