Bell Textron has appointed Universal Helicopters as its first Bell 505 dealer in the United States with the authorised territory of Arizona and Utah. Bell's dealership network creates a complete experience from aircraft purchasing to operator training for current and future 505 customers.

Earlier in 2021, Bell's global training facility and Universal Helicopters announced the collaboration to deliver ab initio and rotorcraft add-on training utilising the Bell 505 to pilots across the U.S.

“Deepening our collaboration with Universal Helicopters and naming it our first dealership in the United States is an important step as we continue to see growth for the Bell 505 around the world,” says Lane Evans, director, Bell 505 sales. “While Universal Helicopters is based in the United States and our first Bell 505 dealership in country, its customer reach will play an important role in continuing interest for the Bell 505 and supporting the increasing need for future operator training.”

The light single-engine helicopter offers a combination of rugged high performance, superior fuel efficiency and a low cost of acquisition and operation. With a dual-channel FADEC engine the helicopter has plenty of power at high altitudes. Additionally, the G1000H NXi all glass flight deck and panoramic windows provide good visibility, situational awareness and safety.