EASA certifies Bell 429

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) late in September issued a type certificate to the Bell 429. The agency also approved the light twin’s initial maintenance requirement report, a document based on the agency’s maintenance review board (MRB) process that helps operators develop continued airworthiness maintenance programs. This is the first time the MRB process has been used for a helicopter. According to the agency, it yields safety and efficiency benefits for operators and maintenance organizations.