The Surete du Quebec will fly the 6,000th commercial aircraft completed by Bell Textron Canada at its commercial delivery and assembly centre in Mirabel, in the form of two Subaru Bell 412EPXs. Bell will deliver the aircraft to the Ministere des Transports et de la Mobilite durable, which manages a fleet of aircraft through the Service Aerien Gouvernemental (SAG).

“Our 6,000th helicopter built in Canada demonstrates our commitment to manufacturing aircraft capable of performing the most critical missions, as well as our dedication to contributing to Quebec’s economy. We’re proud of the products Bell Textron Canada has delivered to support critical missions across the globe and thrilled to celebrate this milestone by delivering this aircraft and supporting our own community,” says Danny Maldonado, chief commercial officer, Bell Textron.

“For nearly 40 years, Bell Textron Canada has been a pillar of our regional economy. The company showcases Quebec’s expertise far beyond our borders, while creating quality jobs and sustainable benefits here in the Laurentians. This 6,000th helicopter is much more than a number. It is a symbol of Quebec’s know-how, a shared ambition and an unwavering commitment to the safety of Quebec,” adds Sonia Belanger, Minister Responsible for Seniors, Minister Delegate for Health and Minister Responsible for the Laurentians Region.

“For the Surete du Quebec, the new helicopters are essential to fulfilling our mission. Our police helicopter services, including search and rescue, are offered throughout Quebec thanks to our valuable partnership with the Ministere des Transports et de la Mobilite durable, particularly with the General Directorate of the SAG. In 2024, our helicopters carried out 116 missions,” notes Liette Abel-Normandin, senior director of strategy and institutional affairs, and member of the Surete du Quebec’s senior management team.

“Bell has been investing in Quebec for a long time, which has allowed us to create a global centre of excellence in Mirabel. We are delighted that, thanks to this, Quebec’s engineering expertise is being exported worldwide with exceptional aircraft like the Subaru Bell 412EPX,” explains Michael Nault, general manager of Bell Textron Canada.

Since the 1960s, the Ministere des Transports et de la Mobilite Durable, through the SAG, has relied on Bell helicopters. The fleet used for the Surete du Quebec’s mission plays a vital role in public safety across Quebec. The Subaru Bell 412EPX is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and features that will enhance performance and operational capabilities in the Surete du Quebec’s operations, including search and rescue missions across forest and mountainous terrain, crew and equipment transport, flood evacuation, aerial surveillance and tactical operations.

The celebrations took place at Bell Textron Canada’s Mirabel facility, where employees and dignitaries gathered to commemorate the historic event. Bell Textron Canada continues to set the standard for excellence in the aviation industry, and the delivery of the 6,000th helicopter is a testament to the talent and dedication of the team delivering Bell commercial aircraft.