China Central Television (CCTV) has taken delivery of an electronic news gathering (ENG) Bell 429. The helicopter will be operated by Reignwood Star. The B429 is the first dedicated ENG configured helicopter in China as well as the first ENG-configured Bell 429 to operate in north Asia.

“The Bell 429 is an extraordinary helicopter designed for multiple missions, and it will help us to reach the news scene first, which means a lot for media,” says Cao Wei, general manager and chief pilot of Reignwood Star. “We believe CCTV made the best choice.”

Bell MD for north Asia Jacinto Monge adds: “It's a great milestone for Bell to collaborate with the Chinese TV station like CCTV. We appreciate the support we have received from the media community all over the world."

Reignwood, an independent representative of Bell in China, will incorporate aerial photography systems in the helicopter before it is officially put into service.

Since the first helicopter was introduced to the television industry in the 1950s, helicopters have been widely used by television broadcasters worldwide. The Bell 429's large cabin provides space for news anchors to perform their duties. The type is currently operating in 42 countries around the world.