Bell Textron Delivers Bell 407GXi Helicopter to Texas DPS

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

On May 28, 2026, Bell Textron Inc. officially announced the delivery of a new Bell 407GXi helicopter to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Aircraft Operations Division. The delivery fulfills a purchase agreement that was initially revealed in March 2026 at the VAI Verticon conference in Atlanta, Georgia, according to the company’s press release.

The newly acquired aircraft is slated to support a wide array of critical missions across the state. According to Bell, the Texas DPS will utilize the helicopter for statewide air patrol, criminal surveillance, emergency response, and search-and-rescue operations. The addition of the Bell 407GXi further expands the agency’s extensive mixed aviation fleet.

This delivery highlights a localized partnership between a Texas-based manufacturer and the state’s primary law enforcement agency. Bell Textron Inc., headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, recently celebrated its 75th anniversary in the city, making this delivery a notable milestone in a relationship that spans nearly six decades.

Enhancing Texas DPS Aerial Capabilities

Advanced Technology and Performance

The Bell 407GXi is highly regarded in the law enforcement and air medical sectors for its reliability and advanced technology. According to the manufacturer’s specifications provided in the release, the aircraft is powered by a Rolls-Royce engine and can cruise at speeds up to 133 knots (246 km/h). It features advanced avionics, glass instrument displays, and single-pilot Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) capability, which allows operators to perform in demanding weather environments while reducing pilot workload.

For law enforcement customization, the helicopter boasts an 85-cubic-foot cabin with abundant capacity for specialized equipment, including multi-sensor cameras, searchlights, and tactical communications. The aircraft offers nearly four hours of loitering capability and can be equipped with a cargo hook capable of holding up to 3,100 pounds of essential public safety equipment.

“The addition of this aircraft to the DPS fleet will strengthen our ability to protect and serve Texas while expanding the support we can provide to our partner agencies across the state. This enhanced aviation capability gives DPS greater flexibility to provide critical aerial support and eyes in the sky during emergencies, law enforcement operations and large-scale public safety events.”

A Historic Texas Partnership

Decades of Collaboration

The relationship between Bell and the Texas DPS is deeply rooted in the state’s aviation history. According to the delivery announcement, the Texas DPS began its helicopter operations in 1967 with the purchase of two Bell 47G-5s. Notably, these were the first Bell aircraft models produced in Texas and were instrumental in early manhunts and search-and-rescue operations.

“Bell is proud of the nearly 60-year relationship we have with Texas DPS, and we are excited to be here today to deliver this Bell 407GXi. The Bell 407GXi is a proven, reliable aircraft in use by hundreds of public safety agencies throughout the world, and I look forward to seeing this aircraft working in the skies across Texas.”

The new Bell 407GXi joins one of the largest airborne law enforcement units in the United States. The Texas DPS Aircraft Operations Division consists of 50 police pilots, 25 tactical flight officers, and essential support personnel. The department’s rotary-wing fleet currently includes a Bell 412EP, 14 Airbus AS350/H125 helicopters (three of which are hoist-equipped), and one Airbus EC145. The fixed-wing fleet includes Cessna 206s, Cessna 208 Caravans, Pilatus PC-12s, and a King Air 350. All DPS pilots hold a minimum of commercial pilot licenses with instrument ratings.

AirPro News analysis

We note that the acquisition of the Bell 407GXi by the Texas DPS aligns with a broader industry trend among law enforcement and emergency medical agencies. There is a clear shift toward upgrading fleets to IFR-capable, technologically advanced helicopters. Agencies such as the Chicago Police Department and various air medical responders have recently integrated the Bell 407GXi into their operations to leverage its enhanced safety features, digital avionics, and multi-mission versatility. By investing in IFR capabilities, agencies are ensuring their fleets can operate safely in a wider range of weather conditions, ultimately improving response reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary use of the Bell 407GXi for Texas DPS?

According to the official announcement, the aircraft will be utilized for statewide air patrol, criminal surveillance, emergency response, large-scale public safety events, and search-and-rescue missions.

When did Texas DPS begin its helicopter operations?

The Texas DPS began its helicopter operations in 1967 with the purchase of two Bell 47G-5s, which were the first Bell aircraft models produced in Texas.

Sources

• Bell Textron Inc.