Texas DPS Expands Fleet with New Bell 407GXi Helicopter

This article is based on an official press release from Bell.

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is expanding its aviation capabilities with the acquisition of a new Bell 407GXi helicopters. The purchase agreement was officially announced by Bell Textron Inc. during the 2026 VAI Verticon conference in Atlanta, Georgia.

According to the official press release, the new aircraft will support the Texas DPS Aircraft Operations Division, which is responsible for statewide air patrol, criminal surveillance, and rescue missions. The addition of the Bell 407GXi is expected to bolster the department’s operational readiness and response times across the state.

This latest acquisition builds upon a decades-long relationship between the Texas law enforcement agency and the Fort Worth-based aerospace manufacturers, highlighting a continued reliance on Bell’s rotorcraft platforms for critical public safety operations.

A Legacy of Law Enforcement Aviation

Decades of Partnership

The partnership between Bell and the Texas DPS dates back more than 75 years. According to the company’s announcement, the department first established its aviation fleet in 1948 with the purchase of two Bell 47 helicopters. Since then, the agency has continued to integrate Bell aircraft into its operations, currently utilizing a Bell 412EP alongside the newly ordered 407GXi.

Bell, which has been headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, since 1951, emphasized its ongoing commitment to supporting statewide law enforcement and emergency response teams through this latest agreement.

“Over 50 years ago, Texas DPS chose Bell as its first public safety use rotorcraft. Today, Bell is honored to continue that relationship with the department as they expand their public safety mission capabilities in a Bell 407GXi across the state of Texas,” said Lane Evans, managing director of North America sales for Bell, in the press release.

Enhancing Statewide Mission Capabilities

Operational Advantages of the 407GXi

The Bell 407GXi is specifically designed to offer versatility and reliability for public safety missions. The manufacturer notes that the aircraft comes equipped with advanced avionics, enhanced safety features, cargo hooks, and a spacious cabin configuration. These design elements are intended to ensure that operators can execute complex missions efficiently and safely.

For the Texas DPS, the integration of this advanced rotorcraft is viewed as a critical step in maintaining high levels of service and protection for communities throughout the state.

“The addition of this Bell aircraft to our fleet represents a significant investment in our operational reliability and public safety missions,” stated Stacy Holland, chief pilot for the Texas Department of Public Safety Aircraft Operations Division. “Greater reliability translates directly into faster response times, added support for our partners on the ground, and provides an even higher level of service to the communities we are proud to protect.”

AirPro News analysis

We note that the continued investment by state agencies in proven rotorcraft platforms like the Bell 407GXi underscores the growing demand for modernized, multi-role aviation assets in law enforcement. As public safety missions become increasingly complex, ranging from routine aerial patrols to high-stakes criminal surveillance and search-and-rescue operations, agencies are prioritizing aircraft that offer a blend of advanced avionics, payload capacity, and operational reliability. Furthermore, Bell’s localized presence in Texas likely provides logistical and maintenance advantages that factor into the state’s long-term procurement strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of the Texas DPS Aircraft Operations Division?

The division provides statewide air patrol, criminal surveillance, and rescue support across the state of Texas.

When did the Texas DPS first start using Bell helicopters?

According to Bell, the Texas DPS established its fleet in 1948 with the acquisition of two Bell 47 helicopters.

Where was the purchase agreement announced?

The agreement was announced at the VAI Verticon 2026 conference in Atlanta, Georgia.

Sources

• Bell Newsroom