Bell has received FAA type certification authorization to increase the performance information service ceiling of its Model 505 light single to a density altitude of 22,500 feet. Bell recently demonstrated the high-altitude capabilities of the 505 Jet Ranger X during flight testing in Nepal, performing various takeoffs and landings at density altitudes between 18,000 and 18,500 feet, as well as conducting evaluations of landings with the loss of hydraulic boost.
“High-altitude demonstrations are another testament to the aircraft’s ability to perform in the most demanding environments, across a variety of segments,” said Bell 505 program director LaShan Bonaparte.
The in-service fleet of Bell 505s has been delivered to customers across six continents and recently surpassed the 13,000-hour mark. Bell delivered the first 505 in March 2017 and, according to data from GAMA, delivered 161 of the helicopters through first-quarter 2019. The five-seat 505 is equipped with the Garmin G1000H integrated avionics suite and powered by the Safran Arrius 2R turboshaft Fadec engine.