Bell 525 Flight-test Program on Hold

Bell Helicopter has halted the Bell 525 Relentless flight test program in the wake of the July 6 crash of a flight-test vehicle that killed two of the company pilots. The aircraft crashed at approximately 11:47 a.m. local time while on a test flight from the company's XworX facility in Arlington, Texas.

Speaking to investors on Friday, Scott Donnelly, chairman, president and CEO of Bell parent Textron, noted that Bell is supporting the NTSB in the investigation and has suspended flight-test activities until the company learns more about the cause of the accident. But Bell is continuing with all non-flight certification and program activities, Donnelly said.

“At this time we do not have an estimate as to when flight testing might resume or the length of delay in certification or first deliveries,” he said. “We do remain committed to the Bell 525 and we'll work to ensure the aircraft will be a safe, reliable and high-performance helicopter.”

Donnelly also called the pilots involved “highly regarded individuals, well-respected members of Bell's team” who were very experienced. “We will miss them greatly,” he added.

The FTV was one of three engaged in the 525 flight-test program. Two more had been scheduled to join the program late this summer. Unveiled in 2012, the medium-lift twin is powered by GE CT7-2F1 turboshaft engines and incorporates fly-by-wire flight controls. FTV1 made its first flight on July 1, 2015, and Bell had targeted 2017 for certification.