Bell Textron has delivered a Bell 429 to the Chicago Police Department’s Helicopter Operations Unit just in time for the Democratic National Convention, which is currently underway in the city. At the same time, it has announced that the CPD has placed an order for two 407GXis.
All three aircraft will be tasked with critical public safety missions, such as aerial patrol and police unit transportation. They will also serve as aerial command-and-control centres, providing tactical and technological information to ground units.
“The acquisition of these helicopters is instrumental in our efforts to modernise our fleet so we can better serve the residents of Chicago,” said Superintendent Larry Snelling of the Chicago Police Department. “These new helicopters will give us a stronger aerial advantage in our efforts to strengthen public safety in every neighbourhood.”
“For over 20 years, the Chicago Police Department have chosen Bell as their premier public safety aircraft partner. Bell is honoured to continue that relationship with the Department as they expand their public safety mission capabilities across Chicago,” added Lane Evans, Managing Director of Bell North America.
In addition to the aircraft acquisition, the Chicago Police Department plans to train its pilots on both platforms at the Bell Training Academy in Fort Worth, Texas.
Image: Bell Textron
