Bell Helicopter launches Russia’s first support centre in Kazan

The US-based Bell Helicopter has approved the first in Russia maintenance centre for Bell helicopters. The Kazan Aviation Enterprise has been selected as the service company.

The certificate-awarding ceremony took place on 16 June at the Le Bourget air show in Paris. Bell helicopters will from now on officially receive technical support in Russia. Previously, maintenance was provided in compliance with the requirements imposed by Russian aviation authorities but without Bell Helicopter’s official support.

“The procedure of meeting all the Bell standards is no easy task. It demands substantial investments and accurate observance of all the Bell requirements. We congratulate the Kazan Aviation Enterprise on receiving such a high status,” said the Bell Helicopter’s Russian representative Alexander Yevdokimov. “We have been cooperating with the Kazan Aviation Enterprise and are thankful to the staff for the work they do for the Bell Helicopter’s customers.”

Selling the helicopters in Russia became a priority long ago. At present over 20 versions of Bell helicopters are operated in Russia, about 30 more machines are to be supplied in the next 2-3 years, said the Bell Helicopter official.