Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. company, has announced that Global Medical Response (GMR) has signed a purchase agreement for seven Bell 429 helicopters, with the option to purchase an additional eight. This expansion reinforces GMR’s position as the world’s largest Bell helicopter operator in the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) sector.

Headquartered in Lewisville, Texas, GMR operates 381 bases across all 50 U.S. states and internationally, providing life-saving care as the largest end-to-end provider of acute out-of-hospital patient care.

“Bell is proud to continue our work with Global Medical Response as they expand their HEMS fleet operations with their first Bell 429,” said Lane Evans, managing director of North America at Bell. “The Bell 429 is an incredible platform designed with HEMS operators in mind. We believe it will be a true asset for the Global Medical Response team supporting their critical missions.”

The Bell 429 is a dual-engine aircraft built for rapid response, featuring BasixPro intuitive displays and wide clamshell doors that make patient loading and unloading efficient. With a cruise speed of 150 knots, the aircraft allows GMR to reach urgent calls and interfacility transports quickly. With more than 500 Bell 429s flying globally and over 735,000 flight hours, the platform continues to build its reputation as one of the most advanced light twin helicopters in its class.

“Adding the Bell 429 to our fleet will allow us to expand access to care for patients who need it,” said Daniel Sweeza, national president of air operations for GMR. “It also allows us to meet the requests of our healthcare partners, who have been asking for the flexibility the Bell 429 provides. We’re excited to add this airframe to our communities starting in the spring of 2026.”

This announcement follows Bell’s recent delivery of GMR’s first IFR-configured Bell 407GXi, the first of 24 anticipated aircraft deliveries. GMR and its affiliates currently operate the Bell 407 and Bell 206L platforms to serve local communities in need of emergency medical care.

Bell remains a trusted partner for HEMS operators around the world, supporting emergency response with advanced, reliable rotorcraft solutions.