FORT WORTH, TEXAS (January 11, 20110) – Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, today announced the recent sale of two Bell 407 helicopters to PHI, one of the world’s leading helicopter services companies, for use in the transportation of oil and gas workers in the Gulf of Mexico. 

PHI, known industry wide for the relentless pursuit of safe and reliable helicopter transportation, has long been one of the world’s premier helicopter operators with experience in over 43 countries, operating a fleet approaching 250 aircraft. The company’s core business is in offshore operations supporting worldwide petroleum exploration and production. PHI also offers services to the Onshore Mining, International, Air Medical, and Technical Services industries. 

“This sale continues the commitment made when PHI started its initial operations in 1949 using Bell Helicopters in the Gulf of Mexico. The Bell 407 is a proven, state-of-the- art helicopter, which fits in perfectly with PHI’s long term commitment to quality and safety”, said Larry Roberts, Senior Vice President, Commercial Business, Bell Helicopter. 

The Bell 407 is a single-engine helicopter that seats seven. It is used in a wide variety of civilian missions, from air ambulance and airborne law enforcement to corporate/VIP transport, and offshore oil and gas support. Over 1000 commercial 407 aircraft have been produced and are operating in over 50 countries worldwide. It has become the industry standard for dependability. 

“We welcome these additional helicopters to our sizable fleet of Bell 407s. This helicopter is a workhorse for our company and our oil and gas customers’ helicopter of choice to support their light single engine transportation requirements.” Said Al Gonsoulin, Chairman and CEO, PHI.

Source: Bell Helicopter Press Release