Bell delivers Sri Lankan helicopters

HURST, Texas, Dec. 5 (UPI) -- Two Bell Helicopter 412 utility aircraft have been delivered to the Sri Lankan air force at a company facility in Tennessee.

The twin-engine 412 can carry up to 15 people, has a range of about 441 miles, flies at a speed of about 153 mph and features an automatic flight control system.

"We've had a strong partnership with the Sri Lanka Air Force for more than 40 years," said Larry D. Roberts, senior vice president for Bell Helicopter's Commercial Business. "This is a great day for Bell Helicopter as we continue to celebrate this relationship."

The delivery took place during a special ceremony attended by Sri Lankan Air Marshall HD Abeywickrema.

"The Bell 412 is highly reliable and a capable product for our mission needs," he said. "Dependable Bell products and the customer support and service we've received over the years are what we value. We look forward to continuing that relationship in the months and years to come."