Trainer for Military and Civil Institutions
Montenegro’s Minister of Defence, Predrag Boškovic, accepted delivery of the first Bell 505 destined for the Air Force on 15 September. The second aircraft is scheduled for delivery next January.
These new aircraft will be used to train the Montenegrin military. Bell provided training for three pilots with HeliDeal, a Certified Training Facility for 505 pilot training in Southern France. “We appreciate Bell being so flexible with the training process […] The virtual training courses were easy to follow and effective in teaching us about the aircraft,” observed Maj Goran Sencic.
The Bell 505 continues to have major success in Europe and elsewhere. The aircraft includes a high-tech flight deck and adaptable cabin design, making it extremely cost-competitive and capable for any challenge. With the latest integrated Garmin avionics suite and FADEC-controlled engine, the aircraft provides increased situational awareness and safety, allowing pilots to focus on training and reducing pilot workload. Additionally, the high-inertia rotor system enables students to gain confidence in learning auto rotations.
“With the cost effectiveness and flexible cabin space, the Bell 505 is the best trainer aircraft on the market […] this aircraft is a great addition to our fleet,” stated Lt Col Bojan Blagojevic, Commander of the Air Force.
“Bell aircraft, which are unique in the Western Balkans, are the best choice for [the] Montenegrin Armed Forces,” commented Minister Boškovic. “It will provide excellent training to our pilots and opportunities to perform various tasks, but perhaps the most important is supporting civil institutions.”
With a speed of 125kts and useful load of 1,500lbs, the Bell 505 is designed to be safe and easy to fly while providing significant value to the operator. The customer-driven design of the aircraft places safety, performance and affordability at the forefront, blending proven systems with advanced technology and a sleek, modern design.
The aircraft were manufactured by Bell Textron Canada at its facility in Mirabel, Quebec. The sale was facilitated by the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) through a government-to-government contract.
“The Bell 505 is renowned for delivering best-in-class value to our customers. Since the students already have knowledge of menu-driven avionics platforms, the 505’s advanced avionics leads to better prepared pilots,” stated Duncan Van De Velde, Managing Director for Bell in Europe and Russia.
