Bell wins new orders from Japan’s Nakanihon Air

Bell Textron continues to expand its footprint in Asia Pacific with new orders for the Bell 429 from Japan and a recent delivery to Indonesia. Nakanihon Air (NNK), one of Japan’s largest helicopter operators, has signed a purchase agreement for two additional Bell 429 aircraft to support helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS). This follows NNK’s purchase of two Bell 429s in 2017. NNK currently operates a fleet of over 10 Bell helicopters, including the 430, 412, and 429 models. As an authorised Customer Service Facility since 1994, NNK has acquired approximately 80 Bell aircraft over the past 60 years, underscoring its long-standing relationship with Bell. In addition to the new orders, Bell successfully delivered a Bell 429 to an Indonesian corporate customer in December 2025, further solidifying the aircraft’s reputation in the region. “We are thrilled that Nakanihon has chosen to expand its Bell 429 fleet, bringing their total Bell helicopter fleet to approximately 80 over nearly six decades,” said David Sale, managing director, Asia Pacific, Bell. “Their continued trust in the Bell 429 for HEMS operations highlights the aircraft’s exceptional performance, speed, and low vibration. These milestones reflect the confidence our customers place in Bell and our commitment to providing tailored solutions and seamless support across Asia Pacific.” The Bell 429 is widely recognised for its versatility and reliability, serving diverse missions across the region. Notable operators include New South Wales Police, Queensland Police, and the Royal Thai Police. Globally, the Bell 429 fleet has surpassed 811,900 flight hours, with over 500 aircraft in operation. Designed for a range of missions, the Bell 429 features a fully integrated glass cockpit and single or dual-pilot IFR capability. Its exceptional speed, range, and safety margins make it ideal for corporate, HEMS, law enforcement, and utility operations. Bell expands Philippines support network Bell Textron announced the appointment of INAEC Aviation Corporation as an Authorised Maintenance Center (AMC) in the Philippines. INAEC will provide maintenance services for the Bell 429 fleet, expanding Bell’s local support capabilities in the region. “Our customers’ operational readiness is our top priority,” said Chris Schaefer, VP Global Customer Solutions, Bell. “Working with INAEC strengthens our local maintenance network and ensures Bell 429 operators in the Philippines have access to qualified support closer to home. This appointment reflects our ongoing commitment to expanding our regional service infrastructure.” INAEC Aviation Corporation (INAEC) provides aviation solutions across the Philippines, including air charter services, aircraft management, maintenance, and fixed base operations. “We are pleased to join Bell’s authorized service network,” said Benjamin “Jay” Lopez, President, INAEC. “This partnership combines INAEC’s local expertise with Bell’s global standards to deliver reliable maintenance solutions for Bell 429 operators in the Philippines.” Bell’s global customer support network includes over 50 authorised service centres worldwide. The company’s Asia Pacific regional facility in Singapore provides maintenance, repair, overhaul, customisation, and paint services for Bell’s commercial and military helicopter fleets. For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Matt Driskill at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Head of Sales Sally Passey at [email protected]