Rotorcraft OEMs Bell and MD Helicopters recently announced moves to improve their maintenance support offerings.
Bell said that Boeing is now an authorized and endorsed supplier, providing used serviceable material (USM) products for Bell 212 and 412 customers and maintainers. USM parts are available for purchase or exchange.
All repaired or overhauled parts are FAA-approved and processed through Bell’s authorized customer service facilities and maintenance centers. The exchange/rotables inventory includes parts for Bell 212 and 412 helicopters supported by Boeing, such as airframe, main transmission, avionics, main rotor head, main rotor blades, tail rotor blades, and gearboxes.
Separately, MD Helicopters (MDH) has formed an authorized service center council representing its 40-member network. The effort aims to bring the OEM closer to its network members, increase communication, review and discuss policy changes, and develop a stronger understanding of customer needs.
MDH and the council will also establish new policies, pricing, procedures, and products to support the fleet. The six-member council will meet four times a year. Along with MDH, inaugural members include Thoroughbred Aviation, EM Heli-Logistics, SAS, Mt Hutt Aviation, and Summit Helicopters.