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Bell Secures New Bell 429 VIP Helicopter Orders in the UK and Estonia

Fri, May 15, 2026

Bell Secures New Bell 429 VIP Helicopter Orders in the UK and Estonia

Bell Textron has secured new purchase agreements for three Bell 429 helicopters destined for VIP operators in the United Kingdom and Estonia.

The Bell 429 continues to see strong demand within executive and corporate transport markets due to its combination of speed, cabin comfort and operational flexibility. The aircraft is widely used for VIP transport, corporate shuttle operations and government missions across Europe.

Growth in the European VIP rotorcraft market reflects increasing demand for fast point to point travel solutions, particularly in regions where helicopter operations provide direct access to urban centres and remote destinations.

The new orders further strengthen Bell’s position within the executive helicopter segment as operators continue investing in premium rotorcraft platforms for high end transport missions.

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Mobile Passport Control Expands to Nearly 40 General Aviation Airports

U.S. Customs and Border Protection says eligible travelers can now use its Mobile Passport Control app at nearly 40 general aviation airports. NBAA identified participating locations that include Dallas Love Field, Fort Lauderdale Executive, Opa-Locka, Scottsdale, Teterboro and Van Nuys. The expansion gives international business aviation passengers another way to prepare information for inspection on arrival. Travelers can use the app to scan a passport, provide a photo and answer required questions before landing. CBP says a submission remains valid for four hours, and groups of up to 12 can be processed together. Passengers must still bring their passports and complete inspection with a CBP officer; using the app does not replace that step. NVOII readers planning an international arrival should confirm that their specific airport offers the service and that each traveler is eligible before relying on it. NBAA notes that actual time savings at GA airports are not yet clear. Stay connected with NVOII for all things BizAv.

NBAA-BACE 2026: Las Vegas Prepares to Welcome the Business Aviation World

Business aviation is heading to Las Vegas as NBAA prepares to bring aircraft, innovation and industry connections together at NBAA-BACE 2026. Taking place October 20–22 at the Las Vegas Convention Center and Henderson Executive Airport, the event will give professionals an opportunity to explore the products, services and ideas shaping the sector’s future. NBAA’s announced aircraft lineup includes Gulfstream, Bombardier, Dassault, Textron Aviation, Pilatus and other leading manufacturers. Alongside the aircraft displays, exhibitors will showcase avionics, cabin interiors, engines and ground-handling equipment, giving owners and operators a chance to assess solutions for their businesses. A new Horizon Stage will bring headline speakers directly onto the exhibition floor, while more than 70 education sessions will address subjects including safety, maintenance, regulation and workforce development. Career support and dedicated networking opportunities will extend the programme beyond aircraft and technology, helping attendees build connections and develop their next professional steps. For the NVOII community, the appeal is practical: a chance to meet industry peers, discover new capabilities and have conversations that could lead to the next partnership, career opportunity or operational improvement. Stay connected with NVOII for all things BizAv.

Business Aviation Connectivity Becomes a Competitive Battleground as Aircraft Owners Demand Airline-Beating Broadband

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Mexico Ends Single-Entry Landing Permits for International Charter Operators

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Bermuda–Boston Air Ambulance Missing Near Nantucket With Six Aboard

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Aircraft Services Group Opens 30,000-Square-Foot Private Jet Hangar and Headquarters at Sarasota-Bradenton Airport

Aircraft Services Group has officially opened a new 30,000-square-foot private aviation hangar and corporate headquarters at Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport [KSRQ] in Florida. The company held its ribbon cutting October 1, establishing the facility as a hub for its expanding private aviation operations. The development includes another 5,000 square feet dedicated to a private lounge, kitchen and offices, along with an onsite 20,000-gallon fuel farm. Aircraft Services Group expects the operation to support jobs across ground operations, aircraft maintenance, pilots and charter sales, while an adjacent parcel provides potential space for a second hangar. For NVOII, the opening is another indication of how Florida’s business aviation infrastructure continues expanding beyond its largest established private-jet gateways. Aircraft Services Group says privacy and security are increasingly influencing facility development, and the company intends to use Sarasota as a base for its wider national operation. Stay connected with NVOII for all things BizAv.