UAE-based EDIC Horizon International Flight Academy is celebrating 110,000 flight hours on its Bell 429 fleet, two of which it took delivery of during the MEBAA 2018 show. The helicopters are used for ATP, instrument, multi-engine and specialised mission training from its base at Al Ain International airport.

“EDIC sets the bar for outstanding training,” says Bell managing director, Africa and Middle East Sameer Rehman. “Exceeding 100,000 hours of flight time is a fantastic achievement that demonstrates operational excellence. We are proud that future pilots are learning on Bell aircraft and we look forward to many more shared milestones in the future.”

EDIC Horizon International Flight Academy has been providing flight training to future pilots in the UAE since 2003 with a fleet solely comprising of Bell aircraft and including the Bell 206, Bell 407 and Bell 429.

With what Bell claims are the lowest vibrations in its class, the 429 meets or exceeds today's airworthiness requirements to enhance occupant safety, with the adaptability to remain at the forefront as mission needs evolve. The use of metallic and composite parts in its construction creates the perfect balance between rigidity, flexibility and durability. An advanced avionics and systems monitoring suite ensures outstanding maintainability and aircraft readiness.