Bell Textron Inc. has acquired Zhenjiang Aerochine Aviation Limited, based in the city of Zhenjiang in the eastern province of Jiangsu, to increase its helicopter maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) capabilities in the country. Previously appointed as an Authorized Maintenance Center, the acquired Zhenjiang Aerochine, now called Zhenjiang Bell Textron Aviation Service Co. Ltd (Zhenjiang Bell), was a wholly owned subsidiary of Aerochine Aviation Limited.
Zhenjiang Bell is a part 145 repair station certified by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). Bells states the acquisition enables it to directly provide MRO services to operators in China for the Bell 407 and 206 models, with plans to add all operational models, including Bell 505, Bell 429, Bell 412 and legacy models.
“Bell is known worldwide for its industry-leading support and services, and this milestone will enhance our award-winning customer service in China,” said Michael Reagan, director of Bell Support & Services, International. “The growing fleet in China warrants an Original Equipment Manufacturer MRO centre, so we decided to further increase our investment in China.”
There are approximately 200 Bell helicopters operating across China. In addition to the new Zhenjiang Bell MRO centre, Bell also has a supply centre in Shanghai in addition to the multiple authorized maintenance facilities providing MRO support.
“This acquisition showcases our commitment to provide our know-how and expertise to our customers locally,” said Jacinto Monge, managing director of Bell North Asia. “Our customers are our priority, and we will continue to focus on providing them with an excellent experience throughout the lifetime of their aircraft, right here in China.”
