Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. company, announced the delivery of a new Bell 407GXi helicopter to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), strengthening the agency’s aerial operations capability. The delivery follows an earlier announcement made during Verticon this year regarding the aircraft’s purchase.
“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,” said Linda Deslatte, Bell vice president of commercial programs. “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.”
Recently celebrating 75 years headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, Bell continues to support public safety operators globally. The new Bell 407GXi will join the department’s existing fleet, which includes the Bell 412EP, enhancing mission flexibility and operational efficiency.
“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,” said Chief of the Aircraft Operations Division Stacy Holland. “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.”
Texas DPS began helicopter operations in 1967 with two Bell 47G-5 aircraft. In 1969, the department expanded its fleet with additional Bell platforms, including Bell 206 Jet Rangers and Bell 47 variants. Over the years, DPS has operated multiple Bell models, including the Bell 206B, Bell 206L, and Bell 412EP.
The Bell 407GXi is designed to deliver high performance, reliability, and versatility. Equipped with advanced avionics, safety features, cargo hooks, and a spacious cabin, the aircraft supports a wide range of public safety missions, including law enforcement, emergency response, and search and rescue operations.
