News Safety & Training
Horizon logs more than 1,000 hours in Bell 505 fleet

Bell Textron Inc. on June 30 announced that Horizon International Flight Academy has logged more than 1,000 flight hours in its Bell 505 fleet, mainly utilized to train military pilots. Horizon’s training academy is in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

“Crossing the 1,000-flight hour threshold in less than three months from its latest aircraft registration is a testament to Horizon and the Bell 505s ability to quickly meet mission requirements,” said Sameer Rehman, managing director, Africa & Middle East. “It’s a privilege to work with the Horizon team to redefine flight training for the next generation of military and commercial pilots with the Bell 505’s proven operational capabilities in desert environments.”

Horizon took delivery of its first 505 aircraft in January and completed its 12th helicopter registration by mid-April. Since then all the Bell 505s are in operation and currently training Academy students.

“We are proud to be operating Bell 505s in our training program,” said Hareb Al Dhaheri, CEO of Horizon International. “With the integrated glass cockpit, it enables our pilots in training to experience modern controls on a single engine aircraft.”

The Bell 505 is rated for a top speed of 125 knots (232 km/h) and a useful load of 1,500 pounds (680 kg).