Fans of Bell Helicopter should be excited about the news that a new helicopter is joining their ranks. The announcement that the 505 Jet Ranger X will be flying at the front of the pack is an exciting one, as the new model looks like an innovative and inspiring addition to a line of impressive helicopters.
A single-engine light aircraft with five seats, the 505 Jet Ranger X will be a welcome addition to Bell Helicopter’s flock of aircraft. The ultimate goal of Bell upon receiving certifications for their new aircraft is to manufacture 150-200 of them a year at its production facility in Quebec. With this goal in mind, it’s safe to say that many different pairs of eyes are eagerly eyeing the anticipated certifications from government agencies. However, to first meet the rate required to produce that many aircraft a year, Bell will need to push out production at their existing facilities pronto – otherwise, they’re likely to fall short.
The 505 boasts some impressive numbers, but it definitely doesn’t qualify as a heavy-lift helicopter. With a max load of 1,500 pounds, it’s no slouch, but it’s not nearly the cargo hauler that other models out there are. The 505 is more suited to fast travel than anything else, with a range of 360 miles and the ability to reach its top speed quickly.
Before the 505 can be completed, Bell still needs to incorporate several additional kit configurations. Once added, the 505 will basically be waiting for its debut on the market. Different configurations in the world include corporate configurations for the transport of VIP clients, cargo configurations for hauling goods and ensuring weight balance and other important factors are taken into consideration, and general safety measures that include synthetic vision and an advisory system that helps measure weather patterns.
The first training plan for the 505 is also in place and is expected to last a period of two weeks. Training for this specific helicopter isn’t expected to be quite as strenuous as other ones, but our pilots are eager to attend and experience this new aircraft firsthand.
Photo Credit: verticalmag.com