Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. company (NYSE: TXT), announced today the delivery of two 407GX aircraft to Helicopter Flight Services, Inc., a New York based company offering tours, charters, aerial photography, lift work and custom projects. Helicopter Flight Services is the first to operate a Bell 407GX in a sightseeing capacity.

Helicopter Flight Services operates a fleet of five Bell 407 aircraft and two Bell 407GXs. John Kjekstad, owner of Helicopter Flight Services, opted for the 407GX Quiet Cruise kit to proactively address helicopter noise complaints from residents in New York. The Quiet Cruise kit reduces the external noise signature of the aircraft; the decrease in decibels results in a significant noise reduction to the human ear. A pioneer in the industry, Helicopter Flight Services is the only company to move forward with noise reduction technology in the area and the first tour company to operate a 407GX.

“The 407 and 407GX are both great ships. We chose to add two 407GXs because of the fantastic technology. The Garmin G1000HTM flight deck is user-friendly and is a big safety feature for us – we are able to see the New York traffic at a glance. Our clients love the 407GX and we could not be happier with it,” commented Kiekstad.

Helicopter Flight Services began in 1985 with a Bell 206 Jet Ranger. Over the years it has developed into the premier provider of helicopter services in New York, offering custom sightseeing, chartered trips, aerial photography and lifting.

“We are honored that Helicopter Flight Services has chosen the 407GX for its tours, charter flights and other business needs,” said Danny Maldonado, Bell Helicopter’s executive vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. “With their range of services, Helicopter Flight Services demonstrates the capability and versatility of the 407GX. The addition of the Quiet Cruise kit reflects savvy decision-making and consideration of the community. We are happy to meet Helicopter Flight Services’ mission needs and we look forward to continuing our relationship with them,” added Maldonado.

Built on the success of the Bell 407, the 407GX is the only helicopter equipped with the Garmin G1000HTM integrated glass flight deck, making it the most advanced light, single-engine rotorcraft on the market. The glass flight deck provides pilots essential flight information at a glance for greater situational awareness and safety, making the 407GX an ideal aircraft for an array of missions.

The 407GX includes a variety of operational features such as a choice of maximum internal gross weights, high main rotor clearance (8ft), excellent hover performance, powerful FADEC-controlled engine, comfortable seating for seven and optional Quiet Cruise kit. Blade fold capability, cargo hook and a host of OEM kits and customizing offerings make this aircraft ready for a variety of missions.