Long-standing Bell helicopter operator Bellavia Aviation Services has been selected to operate the first Bell 505 in Greece by its private buyer.

It will be operated for commercial flights throughout the mainland and islands of Greece for business, VIP, leisure and charter flights. Bellavia will operate and maintain the aircraft under its organisation certifications with pilots and technicians trained at the Bell Training Academy.

Bellavia, as its name might suggest, has operated and maintained Bell aircraft since 1991. The third-generation family business began its operation with a Bell 47, providing more than 3,500 flight hours in fertilising, mosquito spraying and aerial filming. It continued operations with the iconic Bell 206 JetRanger, Bell 230, and Bell 206 LongRanger, and it currently has a fleet of Bell 206, Bell 407, Bell 429 and Bell 505.

“We are thrilled to add another Bell aircraft to our fleet. We take much pride in flying Bell helicopters throughout the blue skies of Greece and continue to enjoy the unparalleled support and advanced technology Bell can provide,” says Rania Belesioti, accountable manager. Bellavia Ltd. “Our clients and associates are granted with what they deserve: the safest and highest quality flights over the beautiful lands and islands of Greece.”

The latest fleet addition was delivered in August at the Bell Prague service centre. “This is an exciting milestone for the Bell 505. We are proud to deliver the first 505 in Greece,” says Patrick Moulay, senior vice president, international commercial business, Bell. “The Bell 505 is a unique platform that is fit for any adventure. The aircraft enables tourists to experience the world from a new perspective and see some of its most remote and beautiful places.”

Bell has delivered 78 Bell 505s in Europe to customers in Italy, Switzerland, Slovakia and now Greece. The company continues to grow its international presence with aircraft sales for private and commercial use. In addition, to its broad customer base, Bell's Prague facility offers regional operators' accessible maintenance, repair and overhaul options.