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The monthly news publication for aviation professionals.

ACE 2026 - September 8th

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Bell, a Textron Company
Aircraft

Universal Helicopters

Bell 505 Jet Ranger X

Pilot Training

BAN's World Gazetteer

Texas
Arizona
The bimonthly news publication for aviation professionals.

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Universal Helicopters embarks on mission to train B505 pilots
With instructors who have been approved by the Bell Training Academy, utilising Bell's coursework, UHI is the only domestic Bell-certified facility that is equipped to offer customers the expertise needed for mastery.
UHI is authorised to train pilots on a number of Bell platforms.

As a long-time operator of the Bell 206 Jet Ranger, providing instruction and Part 135 services, Universal Helicopters (UHI) has embarked on a new venture with Bell to deliver Bell 505 training to pilots across the US and from around the world.

New pilots can now receive ab initio and rotary wing add-on training in the new Jet Ranger X at various UHI locations, including Scottsdale and Prescott, Arizona. UHI can also provide training at client locations on demand. With its dedication to educate and empower pilots, both experienced and inexperienced alike, its teams are thrilled to provide hands-on instruction to individuals who might be in the initial stages of helicopter ownership or are curious about obtaining a pilot's licence.

With certified instructors who have been approved by the Bell Training Academy, utilising Bell's proprietary coursework, UHI is the only domestic Bell-certified training facility that is equipped to offer customers the expertise needed to master the Bell 206 and gain their private pilot license and beyond using the Bell 505. UHI currently educates pilots on the 206B airframe, providing Initial and Refresher Flight courses in accordance with Bell's curriculum. With the addition of the Bell 505 classes, beginner pilots now can experience the next-generation Jet Ranger while obtaining their credentials as a private pilot, commercial pilot or both in a seamlessly operated and highly powerful platform.

Nearly 300 customers currently operate the Bell 505 for a broad range of missions. From outdoor exploration to beginner pilot training, the aircraft offers both passengers and pilots an unforgettable experience wherever it may take them. For novice aviators, it's said to be a simple, yet thrilling machine to use while learning the nuances of vertical flight, offering an easier transition into the rotorcraft world.

Other News
 
Bell Training Academy passes 240,000 flight hours
July 26, 2026
More than 140,000 pilots have trained with Bell worldwide, with 2,600 flight hours logged by instructors in BTA-owned aircraft last year.
Private operator becomes 700th Bell 505 recipient
July 26, 2026
The handover took place at Farnborough International Airshow 2026, affirming steady demand for the light single-engine helicopter from corporate and VIP operators.
Hats off to the arrival of Texas DPS' Bell 407 GXi
May 31, 2026
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