Bell Helicopter recently received FAA certification for a new Category A (Cat A) takeoff procedure for the Bell 412EPI twin-engine helicopter.

The Cat A backup takeoff requires the pilot of a twin-engine helicopter, starting from a hover, to climb the helicopter vertically and slightly backward while maintaining visual contact with the takeoff spot. This backward vertical climb continues to a defined decision point at which time the pilot lowers the nose of the aircraft to increase airspeed and initiate a normal, forward climb. In the event of an engine failure before the decision point is reached, a properly executed backup procedure allows a safe single-engine descent and landing to the takeoff spot. If an engine failure occurs after the decision point, the aircraft has the capability to accelerate to a safe forward speed, begin climbing and continue flying on one engine.

The Bell 412EPI’s backup procedure, which is an alternative to the standard, straight-ahead Cat A takeoff procedure, provides improved takeoff capability with increased payload up to 640 pounds in standard conditions. It also decreases the required minimum helipad size to 60 feet in diameter.

The 412EPI features Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6T-9 Twin Pac engines, which provide 15 percent more power than the standard Bell 412.

In late February, Bell Helicopter made the first North American delivery of the wheeled Bell 429WLG to Kenny Habul, founder and CEO of SunEnergy 1 of Mooresville, N.C. and a professional Nascar driver. Bell unveiled the 429WLG in October 2013 at the NBAA convention.

“The Bell 429WLG is the perfect fit for our corporate and transportation needs,” Habul said. “I chose the aircraft because of its exceptionally spacious cabin, excellent avionics options and impressive power and range.”

Separately, Bell Helicopter received approved training organization (ATO) certification from EASA. The certification allows the Bell Helicopter Training Academy to provide Part-FCL training courses for European customers, including the use of flight simulation training devices for the Bell 407 and 429.