US medical transport specialist Air Methods has been designated launch customer for the Bell 427i after placing an order for 15 of the twin-turbine light helicopters. The agreement allows Air Methods to trade in up to 15 of its 22 Bell 222 twins at guaranteed minimum residual values.
Bell formally launched development of the instrument flight rules version of the 427 last month after signing collaboration agreements with airframe partner Korea Aerospace Industries and Japanese sale agent Mitsui Bussan Aerospace. The company has 47 orders, with 20 more expected by year-end.
US certification is set for the fourth quarter of 2006, with deliveries from the fourth quarter of 2007. Air Methods will receive a minimum of three helicopters a year to replace the two-patient 222s used in air medical transport for US hospitals.
Source: Flight International
