Steeve mentions the 505 has already achieved 13,000 hours of flight on all six continents. Over 200 units have been delivered, with strategic teams and demos being deployed across the world to increase awareness and foster client interest throughout the globe. After a series of announcements, the 505 is becoming increasingly versatile. Its cargo hook can carry up to 2,000 lb. It was recently awarded the High Altitude Operations certification, for 22,500 ft (and that’s pretty high!). I remember flying over the Yosemite National Park at 10,700 ft, and it felt like I was almost touching the sky. Flying at 22,500 ft must be mind-blowing!
Bell’s Strategy for the Uber Elevate Summit
Bell has been in business for 80 years. We’re pioneers. We broke the sound barrier and were part of NASA’s first moon landing. It’s only natural for us to share our experience and help the industry promote and design vertical lift technologies. The tilt-rotor experience we acquired over the past 20 years allowed us to design a first prototype, the Bell Nexus.
In early 2019, we launched the Bell Nexus with six tilt rotors. Once again, our expertise paid off. All six ducted fans used in the Bell Nexus were developed here in Mirabel by our R&D team. The goal is to provide an aircraft that’s powerful, but also silent and affordable for city areas. Using the tilt-rotor concept rather than conventional rotors also provides increased passenger safety. Imagine if we could replace the morning commute from the Montreal South Shore to Downtown with the new Bell Nexus. You’d go from a 60-minute drive to a 10-minute flight.
We’re also happy to be part of the development of the first Bell APT autonomous drones. Note from Mike: during our visit, the first two prototypes were in the employee cafeteria. While most people believe these units will be used for parcel delivery, Steeve explains these could also help improve emergency organ delivery. The drones averages speed of 100 miles per hour.
Bell Corporate Market Ready to Keep Growing
“We can agree the Bell 407 has helped us tremendously in reaching this kind of client, and after 20 years, we’re in excellent position. The next step for them being the twin engine, our Bell 429 unit is very popular. But the crown jewel many are looking forward to is the Bell 525. This new helicopter will feature many of the latest technologies developed by our Mirabel teams. Some of the technologies will likely become part of our current series in the future.”
About Steeve Lavoie
Let’s say I find it easier to talk about our clients, our team and our products than myself. I’d say I’m fairly new to the helicopter industry, but I’ve always been passionate about the aeronautics field. Early in my career, I worked at Bombardier Aerospace for 23 years, including as Vice-President Industrialization. I intend on using my experience in the African and Chinese markets to help drive the helicopter sector forward.”
“I’ve been impressed by the private helicopter market in Canada. Our independent representative, Heli.Store, has been doing tremendous work. I hope I’ll have the chance to meet with these dedicated pilots very soon, and you can rely on Bell Canada to remain active in promoting this passion throughout Canada.”
