Bell Helicopter, the world’s largest developer and manufacturer of rotary-wing aircraft, relies on its Canadian facilities to help develop, engineer and produce its latest helicopter, the 429. An innovative, lightweight, twin-engine civilian helicopter, the 429 offers the largest open cabin in its class, enabling it to meet the needs of many industries. The bulk of the work on the 429 series takes place at Bell Helicopter’s facility in Mirabel, less than an hour north of Montréal, Quebec.

Bell Helicopter established its Mirabel development and manufacturing facility in 1986; today, the impressive (660,000 square feet) state-of-the-art facility employs more than 1,600 people who design, manufacture and provide customer services and support for all of Bell’s commercial helicopters. The Mirabel facility has produced more than 3,700 helicopters for clients around the world.

Bell Helicopter recognizes the many advantages of Canada’s business environment. Most notably, these include generous research and development tax credits and a highly skilled and educated workforce. The company maintains partnerships with many schools and universities in Quebec, and strives to attract and retain young, energetic workers. Bell Helicopter’s commitment to hiring locally and training extensively has not only made it an employer of choice, but promotes a versatile and dedicated workforce.

Bell Helicopter is truly a leader in aerospace: headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, it maintains manufacturing facilities in Canada and the U.S. supported by a network of supply and service centers around the world.

Bell Helicopter [www.bellhelicopter.com] is yet another global leader that finds opportunity in Canada.

Additional Facts

• About  13,000 Bell Helicopter aircraft are in service worldwide.
• One-third of the world’s operating vertical-lift aircraft are made by Bell, including advanced military aircraft and a variety of commercial single- and twin-engine helicopters.
• In 2009, the 429 was certified in Canada, the United States and the European Union.