Bell Helicopter reports that it is on schedule for FAA and Transport Canada certification of its light twin-engine 429 helicopter in the second half of 2007. EASA certification is expected to follow within the following year.

The company currently has 150 preliminary orders on its books and flight testing of the aircraft's critical components has already begun.

To date, the manufacturer has completed concept demonstration, inlet and exhaust, and wind

tunnel testing. "We are right on track to meet our goals for first flight," said 429 programme director Bill Stromberg.

The company recently celebrated the first flight of the helicopter's main rotor system at its facility in Mirabel, Canada. "During this past year we have successfully completed the evaluation of an improved engine, intake, exhaust, tail rotor control cables, autopilot, aircraft data interface unit, and now the main rotor system."

Flight testing of the rotor is planned to continue for two months, demonstrating stable operations at altitudes up to 20,000 feet.

The aircraft will offer a 200 cubic feet open cabin, with seating for seven passengers and a pilot. It features integrated sliding doors, which can be replaced with clamshell doors for aeromedical operations.

"The voice of the customer is reflected in every aspect of this aircraft from increased safety, reliability and payload capabilities to the state-of-the-art glass cockpit, mission flexibility and a large, open cabin capable of easier loading and unloading of passengers or patients," said Stromberg.