NSW Police has ordered the first Bell 412 EPI to be sold into Australia.
The announcement was made by local Bell agent Hawker Pacific yesterday.
Tony Jones, Chief Operating Officer, Hawker Pacific Asia, said: “It’s true when they say great products are always in demand. The Bell 412EPI is a very capable aircraft, suitable to a wide range of missions, and by showcasing the aircraft to potential clients via our dedicated demonstration tour this year, we were able show up close what this helicopter can really do.
“Just prior to our Australian demonstration of the aircraft, we were pleased to announce that the 412EPI was confirmed as compliant with single pilot, Category A operations for elevated helipads.
"We are proud to have secured for the NSW Police Force. Police helicopters play a crucial role in saving lives and providing assistance to the community. The public can have confidence in Bell and its ability to deliver first-class machines backed by the Bell Helicopter legendary customer support.”
The Aviation Support Branch of NSW Police operates six aircraft of which five are helicopters targeting serious, major and organised crime, counter-terrorism and search and rescue missions.
Their Bell 412EPI is expected to join the fleet in the second half of 2014.