“Skyward Evolution: Leading HEMS Operator Boosts Fleet with Cutting-Edge Bell 429s”
Bell Textron Inc., a branch of Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT), announced that Global Medical Response (GMR) has executed a purchase agreement for seven Bell 429 helicopters, with an option for an additional eight, maintaining its status as the largest Bell helicopter operator worldwide in the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) domain. Global Medical Response, headquartered in Lewisville, Texas, operates 381 bases throughout all 50 U.S. states and internationally, delivering crucial care as the leading comprehensive provider of acute out-of-hospital patient care.
“Bell is privileged to sustain our partnership with Global Medical Response as they enhance their HEMS fleet capabilities with their first Bell 429,” stated Lane Evans, managing director of North America for Bell. “The Bell 429 is an exceptional platform specifically engineered for HEMS operators. We believe that the Bell 429 will significantly aid the Global Medical Response team in fulfilling their essential missions.”
Engineered for rapid response, the Bell 429’s BasixPro user-friendly displays and generous clamshell doors make it an exemplary aircraft selection for HEMS operators. This twin-engine chopper showcases an impressive cruise speed of 150 knots, allowing Global Medical Response to promptly reach scenes for critical incidents or interfacility transfers when seconds are essential. With over 500 Bell 429s globally and surpassing 735,000 international flight hours, the platform continues to solidify its reputation as one of the most advanced light twin helicopters available.
“Adding the Bell 429 to our fleet will allow us to expand access to care for patients requiring assistance,” expressed Daniel Sweeza, national president of air operations for Global Medical Response. “It also equips us to meet the demands of our healthcare partners, who have been seeking the flexibility that the Bell 429 provides. We’re excited to incorporate this airframe into our GMR communities starting in the spring of 2026.”
This announcement comes after Bell’s statement regarding the delivery of Global Medical Response’s first IFR-equipped Bell 407GXi, marking the initial aircraft of 24 anticipated deliveries to the air medical service provider. In total, Global Medical Response and its affiliates are currently operating the Bell 407 and Bell 206L platforms to assist local communities requiring emergency support.
Bell continues to be a dependable partner for HEMS operators across the globe. To discover more about how the Bell 429 enhances missions worldwide, please explore the Bell product page.
