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Bell delivers Montenegro Air Force’s first 505

September 16, 2020  By Helicopters Staff


Montenegro’s Air Force adds the first of two Bell 505s built in Quebec. (Photo: Bell)

Bell Textron Inc. delivered the first of two Bell 505s to the Montenegro Air Force, which will use the helicopters for internal training, while also working with other military pilots in the region. The first aircraft was built in Quebec and accepted by Montenegro Air Force’s Minister of Defence, Predrag Bošković. The country’s second Bell 505 is expected to be delivered January 2021.

Montenegro Air Force adding two Bell 505s

“We are proud to deliver Montenegro Air Force’s first Bell 505… Since the students already have knowledge of menu-driven avionics platforms, the 505s advanced avionics leads to better prepared pilots,” said Duncan Van De Velde, managing director of Europe and Russia, Bell.

Montenegro Air Force’s two Bell 505s will be used to train new military and air force pilots in the region. (Photo: Bell)

Bell has provided training for three pilots with HeliDeal, a Certified Training Facility for 505 pilot training located in Southern France. “We appreciate Bell being so flexible with the training process,” said Major Goran Senčić. “The virtual training courses were easy to follow and effective in teaching us about the aircraft.”

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Manufactured by Bell Textron Canada at its facility in Mirabel, Quebec, the Bell 505 is rated for a top speed of 125 knots (232 km/h) and useful load of 1,500 pounds (680 kg). This sale was facilitated by the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) through a government-to-government contract.

Bell explains the 505 includes a high-tech flight deck and adaptable cabin design, Garmin avionics suite and a FADEC-controlled engine. The aircraft manufacturer also points to the 505’s high inertia rotor system, enabling students to gain confidence in learning auto rotations.

“Bell aircraft, which are unique in the Western Balkans, are the best choice for Montenegrin Armed Forces,” said Bošković. “It will provide excellent training to our pilots and opportunities to perform various tasks, but perhaps the most important is supporting civil institutions.”

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