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

Slated to perform both powerline patrol and personnel transportation work, the new additions will bolster Shin-Nihon Helicopters’ fleet, which also includes other models like the Bell 206, Bell 412 and Bell 427. Shin-Nihon Helicopters has been a longstanding customer of Bell, with a relationship that goes back to 1960, and became Japan’s first Bell 407GXi operator in 2019 when they purchased two of the single-engine light utility platforms.

“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,” said 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.”