TAM Aviação Executiva (Stand 1015), representing Bell Helicopter in Brazil, is rolling out the red carpet for the OEM’s new “short light single” (SLR) helicopter.

The light single-engine machine was introduced in June at the Paris Air Show as a five-seat, entry-level aircraft with a range of 420 nautical miles (667 kilometers), a cruise speed of 125 knots and a useful payload of 608 kilograms (1,500 pounds). It is expected to make its first flight in 2014. Bell has not yet announced a price for the SLS.

“We needed a new, modern aircraft to meet the requirements of private clients, training and public security forces,” said John Garrison, president and CEO of Bell Helicopter. “The SLS class is both extremely competitive and price sensitive, so we collaborated with customers to incorporate their mission needs in a high-performance, high-value helicopter at a very competitive price.”

“The Brazilian market will accept this aircraft very well, in particular for its versatility within the segment proposed,” said TAM Aviação Executiva commercial director Leonardo Fiuza. “The demands of the Brazilian market are met in this new product,” he added.

Brazil is home to a total fleet of more than 1,100 civil helicopters, of which 650 are corporate/executive helicopters, most of them in service in and around the city of São Paulo. In fact, of some 425 helipads located throughout Brazil, more than 260 are in São Paulo.