Bell Textron is strengthening its customer service and support offerings with the acquisition of Zhenjiang Aerochine Aviation Limited, in order to increase its helicopter MRO capabilities in China. Previously appointed as an authorised maintenance centre, the Zhenjiang Aerochine – now Zhenjiang Bell Textron Aviation Service (Zhenjiang Bell) – was a wholly owned subsidiary of Aerochine Aviation.

Zhenjiang Bell is a Part 145 repair station certified by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). The acquisition enables Bell to directly provide MRO services to operators in China for the Bell 407 and 206 models, with plans to add all operational models, including Bell 505, Bell 429, Bell 412 and legacy models in the future.

“We are known worldwide for our industry-leading support and services, and this milestone will enhance our award-winning customer service in China,” says Michael Reagan, director of support and services, international at Bell. “The growing fleet in China warrants an OEM MRO centre, so we decided to further increase our investment.”

“This acquisition showcases our commitment to provide our know-how and expertise to our customers locally,” adds Jacinto Monge, MD of Bell north Asia. “Our customers are our priority, and we will continue to focus on providing them with an excellent experience throughout the lifetime of their aircraft, here in China.”

Diana Chou, founder and chairman of Aerochine, says the move coincides nicely with Aerochine's 10-year anniversary as a Bell independent representative. “The sale of the MRO operation is a vote of confidence and recognition of the company's contribution in the Chinese market,” she states. “We will continue to work alongside Bell to serve our customers.”

There are approximately 200 Bell helicopters operating across China. In addition to the new Zhenjiang Bell Textron Aviation Service MRO centre, Bell also has a supply centre in Shanghai and multiple authorised maintenance facilities providing MRO support to its customers.