QuikTrip Corporation has expanded its corporate aviation fleet with the purchase of a third Bell 429 helicopter, with the agreement signed during VAI Verticon 2026.

The aircraft will support executive transport across the company’s nationwide retail network. QuikTrip operates more than 1,400 convenience stores across 18 U.S. states and uses helicopters to reduce travel times between locations and support business operations.

The latest aircraft continues a multi-year fleet expansion for the retailer. QuikTrip signed a purchase agreement for a second Bell 429 in 2024, adding to its existing Bell 429 and Bell 407GXi used for corporate travel.

Lane Evans, managing director, North America sales at Bell Textron, says: “Bell is proud to provide the aircraft of choice for QuikTrip as it expands its already established fleet of two Bell 429s and a Bell 407GXi. The Bell 429 has proven to be the right solution to support the company's business needs, and we are excited to be part of their growth.”

Stuart Sullivan, vice president and chief financial officer at QuikTrip, adds: “Bell continues to be a valued and trusted partner for QuikTrip. The Bell 429 provides the precise mix of performance, comfort and safety required by QuikTrip and is instrumental in supporting our operations and continuing expansion plans.”

The Bell 429 is widely used for corporate and VIP transport missions. The aircraft features seating for six passengers and integrates BasixPro avionics and satellite-based navigation displays that provide critical information to pilots during flight.