Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, today announced that Span Air Pvt. Ltd. has signed an agreement to purchase its second 429 following a demonstration of the world’s newest helicopter.

Headquartered in New Delhi, Span Air is a pioneer of private air charter services that operates the light, single-engine Bell 407 as well as fixed-wing aircraft. An original 429 customer, Span Air is to receive its first new light, twin-engine helicopter later this year. Its second 429 is scheduled for delivery in early 2011.

“The 429 is a great machine to fly,” said Capt. S.K. Malik, leader of Span Air, who piloted the light twin on a demonstration flight during its recent tour of India. “The Bell 429 clearly and comprehensively stands superior to twins from competing manufacturers in terms of range, speed, passenger cabin volume and comfort. The 429’s operating costs are in the most competitive range, which will be very useful for charter operators.”

Span Air serves business executives and VIPs who need to travel to remote sites in comfort and privacy and to major cities on their own schedules. The company also provides service to some the world’s most exclusive holiday destinations. Captain Malik said Span Air’s new 429s will be used to expand those services, as well as to support the campaigning efforts of individuals seeking elected office throughout India.

“We are proud to provide Span Air with the capability to meet the needs of their corporate customers – providing the most safe, comfortable and quiet travel experience,” said Bell President and CEO John L. Garrison.

The 429 was certified in mid-2009 as a single-pilot instrument flight rules (SPIFR), Category A helicopter under the latest requirements of Part 27 airworthiness rules by Canadian, U.S. and European authorities. It is designed and built to more stringent airworthiness standards than any other light, twin-engine helicopter.

About Bell Helicopter

Bell Helicopter, a wholly owned subsidiary of Textron Inc., is an industry-leading producer of commercial and military, manned and unmanned vertical-lift aircraft and the pioneer of the revolutionary tiltrotor aircraft. Globally recognized for world-class customer service, innovation and superior quality, Bell’s global workforce serves customers flying Bell aircraft in more than 120 countries.

About Textron

Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands, such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems.