Bell has clinched European validation for its 407GX - the latest version of its 407 single-engine helicopter.

The approval comes less than a year after the seven-seat aircraft got the green light from the US and Canada.

The main new feature of the 407GX is a Garmin G1000 integrated glass flightdeck that provides crews with essential flight information at a glance for improved situational awareness and operational capability.

407gx 

 ©Bell Helicopter

Bell has clinched 60 orders for the Rolls-Royce 250-C47B-powered aircraft, which is earmarked for service entry this month.

Meanwhile, Australian business aviation services company Hawker Pacific has been approved by Bell to provide support for its 429 light, twin-engine helicopter from its Sydney base.

"The Bankstown facility will provide maintenance and support for the growing number of Bell 429s in the region," said Hawker Pacific, which is investing in factory training, specialist tooling and spare parts to support the contract.

The company said there is a Bell 429 operating in New Zealand, while a corporate-configured model is scheduled for delivery to a Sydney-based customer before the end of the year. In addition, the Australian navy will receive three Bell 429s next year.

Source: Flight International