Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. company (NYSE: TXT), announced today its participation in the Monaco Yacht Show 2012. Bell Helicopter will display a Bell 429 aboard one of the largest yachts afloat in Port Hercules with exclusive access for attendees.

Bell Helicopter will have a significant presence at the Monaco Yacht Show, September 19-22, with the display of a spacious and versatile Bell 429 in corporate configuration. The Bell 429 has received worldwide accolades for its luxurious seating, glass cockpit and superior speed, making it the first choice for corporate and VIP missions around the globe. Visitors at the Monaco Yacht Show will have elite access to the Bell 429, showcased on the helipad of the 220 ft. (67.15m) superyacht, Garcon.

“Participating in this event gives us an opportunity to talk with our existing and potential customers, learn more about their plans and share our mutual goals for the future. As a global leader in aviation, we have high expectations for ourselves and we will continue to gain altitude in Europe and beyond,” stated Danny Maldonado, Bell Helicopter’s executive vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing.

The Monaco Yacht Show is one of the most important events for the captains of the yacht industry. The prestigious event will host 500 exhibitors representing innovative products and luxury services from a variety of sectors. The Monaco Yacht Show, held annually, had 28,000 visitors representing nearly 40 countries at the event in 2011 and numbers are expected to grow this year.

“The Bell 429, our new light twin displayed at the Monaco Yacht Show, and the Bell 407GX can both be easily embarked on yachts and provide owners the flexibility to transport guests rapidly from an airport directly to the yacht to spend more time afloat,” said Patrick Moulay, Bell Helicopter’s managing director in Europe. “With its spacious cabin and its exceptional speed, the Bell 429 has been particularly successful among the VIP and yacht owners’ community. We see a tremendous potential for more sales in this market segment,” added Moulay.

Bell Helicopter has been growing its product line and global customer base for an energized resurgence in the commercial aviation industry. Its dedication to customer support and services in addition to its world class aircraft sets the standard for vertical lift in 2012.

The Bell Helicopter 429 is one of the most advanced light twin IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) helicopters ever developed. The 429 has set the standard for light twins, delivering exceptional speed, range, hover performance and enhanced safety margins. The 429 boasts a spacious cabin with 204ft3 (5.78m3) of usable volume, optional rear clam-shell doors and seating for 7 passengers and 1 crew.

HeliHub.com editor note – the helicopter is hosted on board MY Garçon – technically not a superyacht but a vessel supporting a superyacht.  Yes, some owners now two boats, one with all the “toys” to follow along behind the main boat.  This support yacht is 67 metres in length.  It is seen here on one of its sea trials voyages prior to delivery with a Dauphin on board