PARIS, FRANCE (June 20, 2011) – Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced its Huey II fleet recently surpassed the 300,000 flight hour milestone.

“This significant accomplishment is testament to the supportability and multi-mission capability of the Huey II,” said R. Danny Maldonado, senior vice president customer support and chief services officer. “At Bell Helicopter, we are committed to making sure our aircraft remain competitive in the marketplace, investing in the Huey II program is one way in which we are proving that commitment.”

Last year, Bell Helicopter launched a “production” Huey II line at its Ozark, Ala., facility to enable shorter delivery cycles. This production line allows Bell Helicopter to manufacture “SPEC” aircraft built to a baseline configuration, which can be customized upon receipt of order to meet specific mission requirements.

Bell Helicopter has made additional investment in reliability enhancements, performance improvements, and a variety of mission specific kits and customizing for the Huey II program ranging from demonstration aircraft and glass cockpits to new training technologies and more. 

The Huey II Modernization Program is the only original equipment manufacturer-approved UH-1H performance upgrade available today. The aircraft combines all new commercial dynamic components with the reliable Honeywell T53-L-703 engine, leading to an increase in hover performance in hot conditions and increases max gross weight to 10,500 lbs, while lowering direct operating costs.

“The Huey II’s increased performance and payload has enhanced its mission capabilities,” said Larry Roberts, senior vice president Commercial Business. “The integration of the dynamic components from the proven and reliable Bell 212, combined with the upgraded Honeywell T53-L-703 engine, has led to higher availability rates and lower cost of operation. These enhancements, such as night vision goggle compatible cockpits, have provided customers an expanded operating envelope.”

Recent deliveries have occurred through both foreign military sales (FMS) and direct commercial sales (DCS). The Huey II is used for multiple missions; it currently is the primary rotary wing trainer for the U.S. Air Force, is used in helicopter emergency medical services, and public security missions for various customers in Latin America.

With more than 230 aircraft operating in 13 countries the Bell Helicopter Huey II fleet delivers increased mission capabilities and performance enhancements to meet multiple mission requirements. In addition to delivering mission ready aircraft, Bell Helicopter also provides pilot and maintenance training, warranty, worldwide spares inventory, and complete logistics support teams as required.

Source and photo: Bell Helicopters