Bell Helicopter a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today the delivery of a Bell 429 to Saudi Geological Survey (SGS). The aircraft is configured to perform utility roles in the Middle East.

“We took delivery of our new Bell 429 at Bell Helicopter’s facility in Mirabel, Canada, and could not be more excited to begin our operations,” said Mr. Ghazi Abdulhay, General Director of Technical Support with Saudi Geological Survey. “This aircraft will provide us with the solution we need to successfully complete our missions.”

Saudi Geological Survey is an earth science organization serving its community to create a healthy environment. The organization places an emphasis on understanding the geologic, economic and engineering factors that affect sustainable management of resources. The recently delivered aircraft will support geological mapping, mineral exploration and many other sustainable management activities.

“This is the first Bell 429 to be delivered in to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” said Steve Suttles, vice president and managing director of sales in the Middle East and Africa. “Customers in the Middle East have shown great interest in the Bell 429 since it was first introduced, and we are thrilled to grow our fleet in the region.”

The Bell 429 is one of the most advanced light twin helicopters ever developed, offering a fully integrated glass cockpit with advanced drive system and best-in-class WAAS navigation and IFR capability. Additional safety features include a collective mounted throttle, damage tolerant hub and rotor system, and energy attenuating seats. It is the first helicopter certified through the MSG-3 process, resulting in reduced maintenance costs for operation.

Bell Helicopters press release