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Bell Model 429 GlobalRanger

2009 MODERN AIRCRAFT

History of Bell Model 429 GlobalRanger

The Bell Helicopter Model 429 is a direct successor to the short-lived Bell Model 427, Bell's long-running attempt to produce twin-engine versions of its successful Model 206/407. Known as the "GlobalRanger", the Type 429 can perform a variety of light utility functions.

The prototype flew for the first time on February 27, 2007, and entered service in 2009. GlobalRanger is currently (2017) serving in Australia, Canada, Kuwait, Oman, Puerto Rico, Slovakia, Sweden, Turkey, the U.S. Kingdom and the U.K. in both military and civilian market roles.

The Type 429 was originally born as an offshoot of the short-lived Type 427 as a lengthened fuselage version designed to overcome the inherent limitations of the Type 427. However, this approach has been abandoned in favor of an entirely new design that employs a more modular approach that the company is developing. The 427's drivetrain and engine system and its general design form were retained, but the newer 429 was essentially an entirely new aircraft. This led to the maiden flight in 2007, and testing continued until 2008.

In 2009, the series was certified, paving the way for series production. Air Methods Corporation (USA) becomes the first customer.

The Type 429 accommodates one pilot and two crew members in a side-by-side cockpit arrangement (the cockpit uses a digitally controlled "glass" design approach). The rear compartment can carry up to six passengers. Dimensions include 41.7 feet in length, 36 feet in width (including rotor diameter), and 13.2 feet in height.

Empty weight is 4,245 lbs and maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) is 7,000 lbs. The landing gear is a simple four-point skid with an optional retractable wheel chassis. The Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) version has an optional rear loading ramp/door (clamshell), capable of transporting medical waste and limited support personnel.

Inside, the cockpit is equipped with 3 large multi-function displays (MFDs) as part of the BasiX-Pro integrated avionics system and various other modern systems and subsystems. Loop and collective joysticks and foot pedals are available in both cockpit positions.

Powered by 2 Pratt & Whitney Canada PW207D1 turboshaft engines, each producing 625 hp, driving a four-blade (composite) main rotor above the fuselage and a four-blade (2 x X-shaped two-blade unit pattern) tail The paddle (offset to port) is at the rear end of the tail. Performance specs include a top speed of 180 mph, a cruising speed of 172.5 mph and a range of up to 450 miles.

The listed operating limit is 20,000 feet.

To date (2017), the 429 model has surpassed the market reach of the previous 427 model and may be on the way to becoming a true twin-engine successor to the 206/407 model.