Bell Helicopter has worked with Astronics Corporation to help integrate the Max-Viz-1500 enhanced vision system as an option for new Bell 429s as well as for retrofit installations. Astronics Corporation (NASDAQ: ATRO) is a leader in providing advanced technologies for the global aerospace and defense industries.

Astronics’ Max-Viz-1500 enhanced vision system (EVS) permits pilots to see much farther than the unaided human eye while offering an added degree of safety and situational awareness in conditions with obscured vision.

“We collaborated with Bell Helicopter on the engineering and application of the Max-Viz-1500 for the Bell 429 to ensure optimized EVS performance,” said Astronics Executive Vice President Elliott Troutman. “The level platform attitude of the Bell 429 and engineering alignment of the Max-Viz-1500 allow for exceptional imaging of the landing area during significantly steeper approach angles. These imaging capabilities go far beyond what is possible with many other helicopters.”

Providing the Astronics Max-Viz-1500 as an option for the Bell 429 gives Bell customers the opportunity to access the latest in real-time enhanced vision. Combined with the Bell 429’s state-of-the-art single-pilot cockpit, IFR and WAAS approach capabilities, the Astronics Enhanced Vision System will permit operators to maximize visibility and performance in obscure conditions.

The Astronics Max-Viz-1500 is available as an option on new Bell 429 helicopters from the factory and also offered for retrofit at the Bell Helicopter Service Facility at Piney Flats, Tenn.

The Astronics Max-Viz-1500 is a dual optical field of view enhanced vision system with patented image software.  Designed by pilots for improved situational awareness in all phases of rotary and fixed-wing flight, the Astronics Max-Viz-1500 sets the standard for EVS and is the first choice for the turbine rotorcraft, fixed-wing turboprop and jet market segments.  The pilot-selectable dual field of view allows pilots to select wide-angle or telephoto views of the world.