“Emergency Services Soar: World’s Premier HEMS Operator Enhances Fleet with Bell 429s”

Bell Textron Inc., a subsidiary of Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT), revealed that Global Medical Response (GMR) has finalized a purchase agreement for seven Bell 429s with the option for an additional eight, preserving its rank as the largest Bell helicopter operator globally in the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) sector. Global Medical Response, based in Lewisville, Texas, operates 381 bases across all 50 U.S. states as well as internationally, providing essential care as the foremost end-to-end supplier of acute out-of-hospital patient treatment.

“Bell is honored to continue our collaboration with Global Medical Response as they enhance their HEMS fleet capabilities with their inaugural Bell 429,” remarked Lane Evans, managing director of North America, Bell. “The Bell 429 is an outstanding platform designed specifically for HEMS operators. We are confident that the Bell 429 will be a significant benefit for the Global Medical Response team in supporting their vital missions.”

Constructed for quick response, the Bell 429’s BasixPro intuitive displays and expansive clamshell doors render it an optimal aircraft choice for HEMS operators. This twin-engine aircraft boasts a swift cruise speed of 150 knots, enabling Global Medical Response to reach the scene for urgent calls or interfacility transfers when minutes count. With over 500 Bell 429s worldwide and exceeding 735,000 global flight hours, the platform continues to enhance its standing as one of the most sophisticated light twin helicopters available.

“Incorporating the Bell 429 into our fleet will enable us to broaden access to care for patients in need,” stated Daniel Sweeza, national president of air operations for Global Medical Response. “It also enables us to respond to the needs of our healthcare partners, who have been requesting the versatility that the Bell 429 offers. We’re thrilled to integrate this airframe into our GMR communities starting in the spring of 2026.”

This announcement follows Bell’s declaration of the delivery of Global Medical Response’s first IFR-configured Bell 407GXi, marking the initial aircraft of 24 expected deliveries to the air medical service provider. In total, Global Medical Response and its affiliates are currently utilizing the Bell 407 and Bell 206L platforms to aid local communities in need of emergency assistance.

Bell continues to be a reliable ally for HEMS operators around the world. To learn more about how the Bell 429 enhances missions globally, please visit the Bell product page.