The Slovakian Police has taken delivery of the first of two Bell 429s that it will use for border protection, SAR, natural disaster relief missions and road traffic law enforcement. “This is one of the most modern aircraft on the market, and it fulfils the increasingly demanding mission requirements of our police force,” says deputy prime minister Robert Kalinak.

The Bell 429 has proved popular with police forces in Europe and beyond: the manufacturer recently delivered 15 units to the Turkish national police, four units to the New York Police Department, and the Swedish National Police will receive its first Bell 429 later this year.

The aircraft includes a fully-integrated glass cockpit, advanced drive system, WAAS navigation and IFR capability, and is said to have more cabin space than any other light twin, with flat flooring and seating for seven passengers and one crew. Its 60-inch wide side doors and optional rear clam-shell doors provide swift access.