Bell announced the debut of two Maintainers and Operators (M&O) conferences this week in China. The conferences, held in Beijing on April 23 and Shanghai on April 25, served as an opportunity for customers in the region to meet with Bell Helicopter customer support representatives and other industry experts.

“As we continue to expand our commercial presence globally, Bell Helicopter must also establish a strong customer support structure for these aircraft,” said Eric Cardinali, executive vice president, Customer Support and Services (CSS).  “Bell Helicopter’s M&O conferences are a clear service differentiator for our customers, and we are excited to expand this progressive offering.”

Initiated more than 25 years ago, the M&O conferences serve as a means for maintainers and operators to meet with Bell Helicopter representatives to learn about the Bell Helicopter support system including CSS enhancements, technical aircraft and maintenance discussions and safety improvements. The conferences have grown to include Bell Helicopter suppliers and to offer additional outreach and support including discussion on direct maintenance cost reductions. Each conference is tailored to address the needs of the regional customers and covers key field support issues such as maintenance procedures and tips, new service bulletins and advance directives.

“We were very pleased with the turnout at both locations,” said Chris Jaran, managing director, China. “It was very apparent that our China customer base is focused on maintaining their Bell Helicopter products at the highest level.”

More than 50 Bell Helicopter maintainers and operators participated in the two regional events.

Bell Helicopter M&O conferences are scheduled worldwide throughout 2013 in Jakarta, Indonesia, Sao Paulo, Brazil and Melbourne, Australia.