Story ID: 
Bell 412EPI Ascends Near Everest
By: Mark Huber
Caption: The helicopter demonstrated landings and takeoffs at 15,200 feet.
Word Count: 178
The Bell 412EPI medium-twin helicopter took on the high-altitude environment around Mount Everest in Nepal last week, demonstrating landings and takeoffs at 15,200 feet, ground effect hover at nearly 18,000 feet density altitude and then flying at up to 20,000 feet. Bell pilots also demonstrated the performance of the 412EPI in the Annapurna Ranges around Jomsom Airfield in Western Nepal.

The 412EPI was introduced in 2013. It improves on the 412EP with the adoption of a Bell BasiX Pro integrated glass flight deck derived from that on the Model 429, a system specifically designed to meet the requirements of twin-engine helicopters and optimized for IFR, Category A and JAR Ops3-compliant operations. The avionics suite also provides high-resolution digital maps, electronic charts and approach plates, ADS-B transponder and optional H-Taws and XM satellite links. The 412EPI is powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6T-9 TwinPac turboshafts, which provide 15 percent more shaft horsepower than on the standard Bell 412, and it has the BLR Strake and FastFin system, which modifies the tail boom to improve airflow, handling, safety and lift.