Bell 429 approved for added weight

The Bell 429 has received approval to increase its weight limit from 7000 to 7500 lbs.

Bell Helicopter has received approval from Transport Canada to increase the weight limit of its twin engine Bell 429 helicopter by 227kg to to 3405kg. The company said it will petition the FAA and European Aviation Safety Agency for concurrence.

The weight limit increase will be available to existing users of the aircraft through the installation of a “minimal kit”, Bell said.

The increased weight will allow the Bell 429 to operate with greater range and loiter times and will be of particular interest to air ambulance and law enforcement operators, Bell said.