Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. company (NYSE: TXT), announced today a signed purchase agreement with INAER France an Avincis Group operator for a Bell 429 in Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) configuration. The aircraft, the first Bell 429 sold in France, will be equipped with a fully customized EMS interior and state-of-the-art avionics. INAER will take delivery of the aircraft in 2014, which will support medical rescue missions in the West region of France.

“Medical missions are very demanding and require modern aircraft and the highest standards of safety,” said Martin Whittaker, Director of Fleet & Engineering at Avincis. “The Bell 429’s advanced technology and performance will allow us to provide safe and rapid transport to those most in need of care.”

“We are thrilled to introduce the Bell 429 to France with long-time customer INAER,” said Patrick Moulay, Bell Helicopter’s managing director for Europe. “The Bell 429 is the most modern light-twin helicopter available and as customers have realized the full capabilities of this amazing aircraft, our installed base in Europe has grown to more than 40 Bell 429s. It continues to gain popularity with HEMS and parapublic operators across the region.”

INAER France is a leader in HEMS rescue, with almost 20 years of operating aerial surveillance assistance and parapublic missions. In addition, INEAR France provides aircraft maintenance and pilot type ratings.

The Bell 429 is the only light twin-engine helicopter on the market with true two-litter capability, featuring enough cabin space for two medical attendants and two crew members. The Bell 429 also offers exceptional flight performance with a fully integrated glass cockpit, advanced drive system and best-in-class WAAS navigation and IFR capability. Additional safety features include a collective mounted throttle, damage tolerant hub and rotor system, and energy attenuating seats. It is the first helicopter certified through the MSG-3 process, resulting in reduced maintenance costs for operators. The Bell 429 also features a spacious cabin and extra large 60 inch side doors, as well as Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) capability certified for single or dual pilot operations.