Business Aviation
Bell Textron Wins Six New Corporate Aircraft Orders in Europe
Bell Textron secures six corporate aircraft orders in Europe, boosting 2025 sales to 17 and meeting diverse regional aviation needs.
During the European Rotors 2025 trade show in Cologne, Germany, Bell Textron Inc. announced a significant expansion of its corporate footprint across the continent. The company confirmed the sale of six new Helicopters dedicated to corporate operations, reinforcing its position in a highly competitive market. These orders, placed by clients in Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and Poland, highlight a growing preference for versatile vertical lift solutions capable of navigating Europe’s diverse and often challenging geography.
The announcement on November 26, 2025, marks a pivotal moment for Bell’s European strategy. With these six new agreements, the Manufacturers year-to-date corporate sales in the region have reached 17 aircraft. This figure represents a steady upward trajectory in demand for private and executive aviation solutions, particularly for platforms that balance performance with passenger comfort. The specific models selected by these new customers, the Bell 505, Bell 407GXi, and Bell 429, cover a broad spectrum of capabilities, from light single-engine efficiency to twin-engine reliability.
We observe that this surge in Orders is not an isolated event but part of a broader trend where European operators are modernizing fleets to meet evolving mission profiles. The backdrop of European Rotors 2025 provided the ideal stage for these transactions, allowing Bell to demonstrate how its current lineup addresses the specific regulatory and environmental requirements of the European airspace. From the high-altitude demands of the Swiss Alps to the congested urban corridors of London and Warsaw, these aircraft are being selected for their adaptability.
The selection of the Bell 505, 407GXi, and 429 by customers in Switzerland, the UK, and Poland underscores the varied operational needs within the European corporate sector. In Switzerland, where high-altitude performance is non-negotiable, the demand for power and stability is paramount. Conversely, in the United Kingdom, operators often prioritize twin-engine redundancy for safety during over-water crossings and flights over densely populated areas. The geographic distribution of these orders suggests that Bell’s portfolio is successfully catering to these distinct regional nuances.
Robin Wendling, Managing Director of Europe for Bell, emphasized the consistency of this market interest during the announcement. His commentary sheds light on the strategic alignment between the aircraft capabilities and customer requirements in the region.
“We have noted a steady demand for our models in Europe, especially for the Bell 505, Bell 407, and Bell 429. These vertical lift solutions provide our customers with the mission versatility needed for the diverse landscapes in the region.”
Beyond the six corporate orders, the broader context of the trade show revealed a healthy ecosystem for Bell in Europe. We saw parallel announcements regarding utility and medical sectors, including Centaurium Aviation in Switzerland confirming a Bell 407GXi for VIP demonstration, and Heli Transair in Germany signing for three Bell 505s for utility and training. Additionally, Air Transport Europe in Slovakia ordered a fifth Bell 429 for Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS). While these are distinct from the corporate sales, they contribute to a robust support network and parts availability that benefits all operators, including private owners.
To understand why these specific models are gaining traction, we must look at their technical specifications and how they translate to real-world corporate missions. The orders were split across three distinct classes of rotorcraft, each offering unique advantages for executive transport.
The Bell 505 serves as the entry point for many corporate operators. It is a light single-engine helicopter that has gained popularity for its open cabin design and panoramic visibility. For executive passengers, this “business class” visibility is a key selling point. Technically, the aircraft cruises at 125 knots (232 km/h) and offers a range of approximately 306 nautical miles (566 km). It accommodates one pilot and four passengers, making it an efficient solution for short-to-medium range intra-city hops. The inclusion of the fully integrated Garmin G1000H NXi Avionics suite brings modern safety and situational awareness to the light single market. For operators in Poland or the UK, where weather conditions can change rapidly, this level of avionics sophistication is a critical asset. Furthermore, the flat floor design allows for flexible configurations, enabling the aircraft to transition between passenger transport and light cargo if necessary.
Moving up the range, the Bell 407GXi is a light single-engine platform known for its speed and smooth ride quality. It is powered by a Rolls-Royce M250-C47E/4 dual-channel FADEC turbine engine, which provides the reliability required for VIP transport. With a cruise speed of 133 knots (246 km/h) and a range of 337 nautical miles (624 km), it extends the operational reach for corporate clients. The capacity for one pilot and six passengers allows for larger executive teams to travel together.
The “GXi” designation indicates the presence of the Garmin G1000H NXi flight deck, which supports Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) capability. This is particularly relevant for Swiss operators who may encounter challenging visibility in mountainous terrain. The 407 platform has a long-standing reputation for performance, and these new orders confirm its continued relevance in the premium single-engine market.
At the top end of these recent orders is the Bell 429, a light twin-engine helicopter favored for its spacious cabin and safety redundancy. In corporate aviation, the twin-engine configuration is often a mandatory requirement for compliance with internal corporate safety policies, especially for flights over hostile terrain or water. The Bell 429 boasts a cruise speed of 155 knots (287 km/h) and a range of 411 nautical miles (761 km), making it the most capable of the trio for longer cross-country missions.
The cabin volume of the Bell 429 is among the largest in its class, typically configured for five to six passengers in a corporate layout to maximize comfort. Its exceptionally smooth flight characteristics are designed to provide a productive environment for executives on the move. The continued sales of this model in Europe suggest that despite stiff competition from domestic European manufacturers, the Bell 429 remains a top contender for premium executive transport.
The confirmation of six new corporate orders at European Rotors 2025 serves as a strong indicator of Bell Textron’s resilience and growth in the European market. By securing 17 corporate sales year-to-date, the company has demonstrated that its product mix aligns well with the demands of modern European aviation. The geographic spread of these orders, from the UK to Poland, validates the versatility of the fleet, proving capable of handling everything from urban commuting to alpine crossings.
Looking ahead, we anticipate that the continued integration of advanced avionics and the proven reliability of these platforms will sustain this momentum into 2026. As corporate travel needs evolve towards greater flexibility and efficiency, the ability to offer a range of aircraft that cater to different price points and mission profiles will remain a decisive factor in market leadership.
Question: How many corporate aircraft did Bell sell in Europe in 2025? Question: Which aircraft models were included in the recent orders? Question: Where are the new customers located?
Bell Textron Strengthens European Presence with New Corporate Fleet Orders
Market Dynamics and Regional Demand
Technical Breakdown of the Selected Aircraft
The Bell 505: Entry-Level Efficiency
The Bell 407GXi: Speed and Reliability
The Bell 429: Twin-Engine Safety and Comfort
Conclusion
FAQ
Answer: Including the six new orders announced in November, Bell has secured a total of 17 corporate aircraft sales in North-America year-to-date for 2025.
Answer: The new orders include the Bell 505 (light single), Bell 407GXi (light single), and Bell 429 (light twin).
Answer: The six new corporate aircraft were ordered by clients based in Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and Poland.
Sources
Photo Credit: Textron
Business Aviation
NTSB Preliminary Findings on Statesville Cessna Citation Crash
NTSB details preliminary findings on the fatal Statesville Cessna Citation 550 crash with seven fatalities, including Greg Biffle.
This article is based on official releases and media briefings from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released initial findings and visual assets regarding the fatal crash of a Cessna Citation 550 business jet in Statesville, North Carolina. The accident, which occurred on December 18, 2025, resulted in the deaths of all seven occupants, including former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and members of his family.
According to official updates from the agency, investigators have recovered the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and identified key details regarding the aircraft’s final moments. The NTSB has also made high-resolution photos and b-roll footage of the accident site available to the public as part of their transparency efforts during the ongoing investigation (Case ID: WPR26MA063).
The aircraft, identified by registration N257BW, departed Statesville Regional Airport (SVH) at approximately 10:05 AM EST, bound for Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ). NTSB investigators report that roughly 10 minutes after takeoff, the pilot initiated a return to the airport, executing a left turn to align with Runway 28.
During media briefings, NTSB officials revealed a critical piece of communication sent from inside the cabin. A passenger on board sent a text message to a family member shortly before impact.
“Emergency landing.”
, Text message sent by a passenger, confirmed by NTSB officials
The crash sequence ended when the aircraft struck approach lighting stanchions approximately 1,800 feet short of the runway threshold. Following the initial impact, the jet collided with trees and the airport perimeter fence before coming to rest and catching fire. The debris field suggests the aircraft was configured for landing with landing gear down and flaps set, indicating it was “stable on approach” but flying too low.
NTSB Board Member Michael Graham and Investigator-in-Charge Dan Baker provided updates on the physical evidence recovered from the site. While the aircraft sustained extensive fire damage, investigators have identified the engines and flight control surfaces within the wreckage. The Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) has been successfully recovered and transported to the NTSB laboratory in Washington, D.C., for analysis. Officials noted that the aircraft was not equipped with a Flight Data Recorder (FDR), as it was not required by regulation for this specific airframe, which was manufactured in 1981.
At the time of the accident (approximately 10:15 AM EST), weather conditions at Statesville Regional Airport included low clouds, mist, and drizzle. Visibility was reported to be approximately 3 to 5 miles. These environmental factors will be a key component of the ongoing inquiry.
To maintain transparency, the NTSB has published a collection of visual assets on the investigation’s official webpage. These materials include:
All future updates, including the preliminary report (expected within 30 days), the public docket, and the final report, will be posted to the same location.
The absence of a Flight Data Recorder (FDR) on older business jets like this 1981 Cessna Citation 550 is not uncommon, but it places significantly more weight on the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and physical site analysis. Without digital flight data parameters, investigators must rely heavily on audio cues, radar tracks, and the physical position of actuators and switches in the wreckage to reconstruct the flight path. The fact that the aircraft was “stable on approach” but 1,800 feet short suggests a focus on altitude awareness, altimeter settings, or visual illusions caused by the reported mist and low clouds.
Who were the victims of the crash? When will the cause of the crash be determined? Was the airport controlled? Where can I view the photos and b-roll?
NTSB Releases Preliminary Findings on Statesville Cessna Citation Crash
Crash Sequence and “Emergency Landing” Communication
Investigation Status and Site Analysis
Recorder Recovery
Weather Factors
Visual Assets and Public Docket
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Authorities have confirmed seven fatalities. The victims include Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, son Ryder, pilot Dennis Dutton, Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth.
The NTSB typically releases a preliminary report within 30 days of the accident, which contains factual information but no probable cause. A final report, including the probable cause, usually takes 12 to 24 months to complete.
No. Statesville Regional Airport is a non-towered airport. Pilots use a Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) to coordinate their movements.
The NTSB has hosted all visual assets on their official investigation webpage linked below.Sources
Photo Credit: NTSB
Business Aviation
Honda Aircraft Introduces APMG S Upgrade for Legacy HondaJets
Honda Aircraft offers the APMG S retrofit for Classic and APMG HondaJets, enhancing payload, avionics, and safety with FAA certified upgrades.
This article is based on an official press release from Honda Aircraft Company.
Honda Aircraft Company has officially introduced the “APMG S” upgrade package, a new retrofit program designed to modernize the manufacturers‘ earlier aircraft models. Announced as the fleet approaches its tenth anniversary, this initiative allows owners of the original HondaJet (Classic) and the HondaJet APMG to install advanced avionics and performance features that were previously exclusive to the newer HondaJet Elite S model.
According to the company’s announcement, the upgrade is available immediately for installation at the Honda Aircraft Company Service Center in Greensboro, North Carolina, as well as through its authorized service center network. The package has already received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification for U.S.-registered aircraft, with certification from other international regulatory bodies planned to follow.
The APMG S package focuses on bridging the gap between the earliest iterations of the HondaJet and the current production standards. The upgrade targets three primary areas: payload capacity, avionics processing, and pilot handling.
Increased Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) Avionics and Safety Systems Additionally, the upgrade introduces a new graphical interface for Weight and Balance calculations on the flight deck, streamlining pre-flight preparations for pilots.
The introduction of the APMG S appears to be a move to protect the longevity and residual value of the HondaJet fleet. By offering a pathway for early adopters to upgrade their airframes to “Elite S” standards, the manufacturer is ensuring that older models remain competitive in the Very Light Jet (VLJ) market. In the official press release, Amod Kelkar, Chief Commercial Officer of Honda Aircraft Company, emphasized the company’s dedication to its existing customer base:
“As we approach the tenth anniversary of our first HondaJet delivery, we are excited to provide our customers the opportunity to upgrade their aircraft with the advanced technology and performance of more recent iterations. The APMG S package brings the spirit of continuous improvement to our in-service fleet, ensuring that the HondaJet remains at the forefront of the light jet category.”
While the official release focuses on technical specifications, the strategic timing of this announcement is notable. The first HondaJet “Classic” models were delivered between 2015 and 2018. As these airframes approach the decade mark, they face potential obsolescence when compared to newer entrants like the Cessna Citation M2 Gen2 or the Embraer Phenom 100EV.
By offering a retrofit option rather than forcing customers to purchase a new aircraft to gain these capabilities, Honda is likely aiming to prevent customer defection to competitors. This strategy aligns with a broader industry trend toward sustainability and lifecycle extension, where “retrofitting” is viewed as a more environmentally and financially responsible alternative to scrapping or replacing airframes. While specific pricing was not disclosed in the release, owners are directed to contact service centers for quotes, historical data suggests such upgrades offer a cost-effective alternative to trading up to a new $6 million-plus aircraft.
Honda Aircraft Company has confirmed that the APMG S package is available for installation now. The upgrade is applicable to:
Owners interested in the upgrade can schedule installation at the factory service center in Greensboro, NC, or at authorized facilities worldwide. While FAA certification is complete, European operators and those in other jurisdictions will need to wait for subsequent regulatory approvals, which the company states are currently in planning.
Honda Aircraft Company Unveils APMG S Upgrade for Legacy HondaJet Fleet
Technical Enhancements and Performance Gains
One of the most significant operational changes included in the package is a 300-pound increase in Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW). In practical terms, this allows operators to carry approximately one additional passenger or significantly more fuel and baggage without compromising range. The company states that this upgrade directly addresses the evolving mission requirements of current owners.
The retrofit includes both hardware and software updates to the Garmin G3000 avionics suite. These updates are designed to deliver faster processing speeds and enable advanced flight deck features. A key safety addition is the Advanced Steering Augmentation System (ASAS). According to Honda Aircraft Company, ASAS is engineered to reduce pilot workload and enhance safety during the landing rollout, particularly in challenging crosswind conditions.
Strategic Commitment to the Fleet
AirPro News Analysis
Availability and Implementation
Sources
Photo Credit: HondaJet
Business Aviation
PlaneSense and CaptainJet Partner to Expand Private Jet Access Across Continents
PlaneSense partners with CaptainJet, enabling reciprocal private flight access with Pilatus aircraft across the US, Europe, Canada, and the Caribbean.
This article is based on an official press release from PlaneSense, Inc. and CaptainJet.
PlaneSense, Inc., a leading fractional aircraft ownership program based in the United States, has announced a significant expansion of its international service capabilities through a new collaboration with CaptainJet, a European luxury charter sourcing provider. Announced on December 16, 2025, this partnership aims to provide seamless, reciprocal private travel solutions for clients on both sides of the Atlantic.
According to the official press release, the agreement allows PlaneSense shareowners to access a vast network of charter aircraft when traveling within Europe. Conversely, CaptainJet clients visiting the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean will gain access to the PlaneSense fleet, which consists of the Pilatus PC-12 turboprop and the Pilatus PC-24 jet. This move solidifies a growing alliance between PlaneSense and the broader Jetfly Group, CaptainJet’s affiliate, following an earlier partnership established in 2025.
The core of this collaboration is a reciprocal service agreement designed to simplify the complexities of international private aviation. For PlaneSense shareowners, the company has integrated a “PlaneSense Sourcing Solution” team that will coordinate directly with CaptainJet. This arrangement provides U.S. clients with access to CaptainJet’s network, which includes over 7,000 aircraft globally, ensuring availability even during high-demand periods in Europe.
For European travelers, the partnerships opens the door to the PlaneSense fleet. CaptainJet clients can now book flights on the Pilatus PC-12 and PC-24 aircraft operated by PlaneSense. These aircraft are renowned for their short-field performance, allowing access to smaller regional airports that are often closer to final destinations than major hubs.
This collaboration builds upon a previous agreement between PlaneSense and Jetfly, a European fractional operator and affiliate of CaptainJet. Both PlaneSense and Jetfly utilize fleets heavily focused on Pilatus aircraft. By partnering with CaptainJet, PlaneSense extends its reach beyond the specific fractional fleet of Jetfly, offering its owners a broader range of charter options to suit various mission profiles that might fall outside the scope of the fractional fleet.
Leadership from both organizations emphasized the client-focused nature of the deal, highlighting the demand for a unified booking experience across continents.
George Antoniadis, President and CEO of PlaneSense, Inc., stated in the press release: “Working with the CaptainJet team allows us to greatly expand our footprint and assist our valued clients with their global travel needs.”
Yves Roch, CEO of CaptainJet, echoed these sentiments, noting the quality of the U.S. operator’s fleet:
“We’re proud to collaborate with PlaneSense, providing clients with exceptional private flights on both sides of the Atlantic.”
The Asset-Light Expansion Model The Short-Runway Niche 2025 Industry Trends What aircraft will PlaneSense clients fly on in Europe? Can CaptainJet clients fly the PC-12 in the US? Is this a merger?
PlaneSense and CaptainJet Launch Strategic Transatlantic Collaboration
Reciprocal Access for Global Travelers
Strengthening the “Pilatus Alliance”
Executive Commentary
Strategic Market Context
AirPro News Analysis
This collaboration represents a distinct strategic approach compared to other major players in the private-jets sector. While competitors such as NetJets and Flexjet have pursued “organic expansion” or “acquisition” models, spending significant capital to buy aircraft and obtain operating certificates in Europe, PlaneSense is effectively building a virtual global fleet. By partnering with CaptainJet and Jetfly, PlaneSense secures immediate European market access without the heavy infrastructure investment required to establish a standalone European division.
A critical differentiator for this alliance is the specific capability of the aircraft involved. Both PlaneSense and the Jetfly Group specialize in Pilatus aircraft (PC-12 and PC-24). These aircraft possess unique short-field capabilities, allowing them to land on runways as short as 3,000 feet, including grass and dirt strips. This opens up access to exclusive destinations, such as Courchevel in the French Alps or smaller Caribbean islands, that are inaccessible to the larger jets typically flown by competitors like VistaJet or Wheels Up. This “adventure access” segment remains a defensible niche that this partnership strengthens.
The timing of this deal aligns with broader 2025 trends where high-net-worth individuals increasingly demand “one-call” solutions. The post-pandemic travel boom has occasionally strained charter inventory; by aligning with a major sourcing agent like CaptainJet, PlaneSense mitigates the risk of inventory shortages for its clients abroad. This ensures that U.S. owners are not left to navigate a fragmented European charter broker market on their own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Through CaptainJet, PlaneSense clients will have access to a sourcing network of over 7,000 aircraft, ranging from light jets to large-cabin aircraft, in addition to the Pilatus fleet available through the Jetfly affiliate partnership.
Yes. The agreement specifically allows CaptainJet clients to book flights on the PlaneSense fleet, which includes the Pilatus PC-12 turboprop and the PC-24 light jet, known for their versatility and short-runway performance.
No. This is a strategic collaboration between two independent companies. PlaneSense remains a privately held U.S. company, while CaptainJet operates as a Swiss-based charter sourcing provider affiliated with the Jetfly Group.
Sources
Photo Credit: PlaneSense
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