Bell unveils 429WLG at NBAA

Bell 429WLG prototype showing wheeled landing gear

The Bell 429WLG has wheeled landing gear.

Bell 429WLG prototype showing wheeled landing gear

Bell Helicopter reports first order for the Bell 429WLG from Argentinian company Rio Iruya. The aircraft is modified version of the Bell 429, featuring wheeled landing gear in place of traditional skids.

The move to offer a landing gear option comes after requests from customers, according to Danny Maldonado, executive vice president of sales and marketing, Bell Helicopters. “We have listened to several customers who have needed the maneuverability of this option for their missions,” he says.

“The development of the wheeled landing gear will benefit me tremendously while maneuvering through the airports of my city, Buenos Aires, where in many cases helicopters and airplanes share the same landing platform,” says Sebastian Eskenazi, president and CEO of Rio Iruya.

The Argentinian company, which will use the aircraft for corporate and VIP transport, signed the firm order at the NBAA in Las Vegas this week.