Bell Textron Inc received the FAA certification for its Basix-Pro Glass Retrofit Kit for Bell 412EP models offering reduced pilot workload, increased precision, and improved situational awareness.
Bell Textron Inc., a subsidiary of Textron Inc., has announced the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification for its Basix-Pro Glass Retrofit Kit designed for Bell 412EP models. This innovative retrofit kit introduces a modern glass cockpit to the Bell 412EP, offering a range of benefits such as reduced pilot workload, increased precision, and improved situational awareness.
The Bell BasiX-Pro Glass Cockpit Retrofit Kit leverages cutting-edge technology, utilizing current Bell production displays from Astronautics and Garmin avionics. By upgrading analog instruments to a full glass cockpit, the retrofit kit brings the Bell 412EP up to par with modern aircraft like the SUBARU Bell 412EPX and Bell 429. Astronautics, known for its reliability with hundreds of fielded displays and over one million flight hours, provides the primary displays, while Garmin supplies industry-standard communication, navigation, and GPS integrated solutions.
“As a part of Bell’s Customer Support and Service offerings, we are committed to developing and certifying new technologies for legacy platforms,” said Chris Schaefer, vice president, Customer Experience, Bell. “In an effort to increase reliability, situational awareness and decreased pilot workload, the BasiX-Pro Kit delivers the latest integrated flight deck, high-resolution displays as well as engine data and flight operation recording. With the BasiX-Pro Kit, 412EP’s now can be upgraded to 4-axis autopilot further reducing pilot workload,” he further added.
Currently, Bell has undertaken a fleet upgrade project for several analog Bell 412EPs, showcasing its commitment to modernizing existing aircraft with state-of-the-art technology. The Basix-Pro retrofit kit will be made available through Aeronautical Accessories, a subsidiary of Bell, with retrofit installations performed at Bell’s global completion centers of excellence. These centers include facilities in Piney Flats, TN, Miami, FL, Singapore, Bell Australia, and Prague.
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This certification underscores Bell’s dedication to advancing aviation technology and providing enhanced solutions for its customers. By offering retrofit options for legacy aircraft like the Bell 412EP, Bell ensures that operators can benefit from the latest advancements in avionics, improving safety, efficiency, and overall operational effectiveness. With the Basix-Pro Glass Retrofit Kit, Bell continues to uphold its reputation as a leader in aerospace innovation and customer support.
