Shin-Nihon Helicopters has signed a purchase agreement for its first two Bell 429 helicopters, further expanding the largest Bell fleet in Japan.

Shin-Nihon has been a longstanding customer of Bell, with a relationship dating back to 1960, and became Japan’s first Bell 407GXi operator in 2019. The two new aircraft will be used for both powerline patrol and personnel transportation, adding capabilities to a Bell fleet that already includes the 206, 412 and 427 models.

The 429 is the perfect addition to the company’s current rotorcraft line-up. The light twin-engine aircraft boasts the largest cabin in its category and an integrated avionics suite, all powered by dual PW207D1/D2 FADEC-equipped engines. It also delivers exceptional speed, range and hover performance, on top of single pilot IFR capability.

“For 65 years, Shin-Nihon Helicopters has been a valued partner, and we are proud to see this enduring relationship grow from strength to strength with the purchase of two more aircraft,” says David Sale, managing director, Asia Pacific, Bell. “The Bell 429s will empower Shin-Nihon Helicopters and its people to continue providing exceptional service to a variety of customers across the country.”

More than 500 Bell 429s are operating worldwide, with more than 735,000 flight hours logged to date.