Bell Helicopter, one of the leading manufacturers of military helicopters in the United States, is known for developing advanced technologies for the aeronautics industry. In keeping with its corporate mission, the brand introduced the 525 model: a helicopter of enormous dimensions with a modular cabin, which also comes in a deluxe VIP version. The Bell 525 Relentless helicopter offers not only comfort and extreme luxury but also the most advanced technology, including a navigation system with interactive displays, intuitive motion commands and automatic pilot.
“For the past 80 years, we have been proud to be recognised by our peers for continuously setting the pace for the industry, and working relentlessly to develop and expand the scope of vertical lift aviation. The Bell 525 showcases our deep passion and drive to deliver something the world did not think possible until now,” said Patrick Moulay, executive vice president of Global Sales and Marketing for Bell Helicopter.
The craft is aimed to be a limo in the sky for offshore oil operations, with a variety of luxurious cabin interiors and also expects to be used for difficult search-and-rescue and firefighting missions due to its huge capacity and improved control in tough conditions. Depending on the configuration of the interior, the 525 will hold 16 or 20 passengers along with the two flight crew with what the builders say is best in class passenger cabin height (137cm) and floor area (8.2 square metres). The 525’s commodious 88-square-foot cabin can be equipped with the sorts of technology and entertainment amenities more commonly found aboard private jets, expanding what is possible for private helicopter travellers. The 525 Relentless is the first commercial helicopter with a fly-by-wire cockpit, featuring side-stick controls and a fully integrated touchscreen Garmin flight deck. The slick exterior of the chopper, which looks like something Iron Man wouldn’t be adverse to taking a ride in, of course has an advanced aerodynamic design, a Next Generation GE engine and an airframe that offers ‘best-in-class payload-range capability.
The helicopter will cruise at a maximum of 178 miles per hour and with its 2,4000-litre fuel capacity be able to fly up to 575 miles without stopping.