Anaheim, CA – In a move that’s elevating the standards of law enforcement high above the ground, Bell Textron Inc. has proudly handed over the keys (figuratively speaking) to three shiny Subaru Bell 412EPX helicopters. Two of these high-flying law enforcement assistants will be calling San Bernardino County home, while the third sets its rotors spinning for San Diego County, as announced during the HAI Heli Expo 2024 on February 27, 2024.
With a flair for the dramatic, Bell has solidified its partnership with the sheriffs of both counties, aiming to boost the safety and security of Californians from the skies. Lane Evans, Bell’s North American managing director, couldn’t contain his excitement, stating, “We’re over the moon to see our helicopters join the fleets of San Diego and San Bernardino Counties. These Subaru Bell 412EPXs are not just helicopters; they’re flying Swiss Army knives, ready to tackle any public safety mission thrown their way.”
These aren’t your average choppers. The Subaru Bell 412EPXs come loaded with all the bells and whistles needed for airborne command, search and rescue, evacuations, and even special ops if the need arises. Thanks to their beefy build, these helicopters can lug around 5,000 lbs with their cargo hook, making them perfect for hauling all kinds of essential public safety gear. Plus, with a robust main rotor gearbox, these birds have got the horsepower to handle operations more efficiently than ever.
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department is planning to put their new flying machine to good use alongside CAL FIRE to combat the ever-threatening wildfires in the region. With nearly 6,000 public safety missions annually, the department’s Aerial Support to Regional Enforcement Agencies (ASTREA) is looking forward to adding the Subaru Bell 412EPX to its all-Bell fleet. Deputy Gary Kneeshaw, a pilot with the department, shared his enthusiasm, “We’re revving up to make this fire season a breeze. This chopper’s capabilities are hot, hot, hot!”
Meanwhile, over in San Bernardino County, the sheriff’s department is ready to deploy its two new aerial allies for a variety of critical missions across its vast jurisdiction. From managing wildfires to search-and-rescue operations, these helicopters are a game-changer for the largest county in the U.S. “Working with Bell has been a high-flying experience,” expressed Lieutenant Brian Chambers. “These new rescue helicopters are a testament to our commitment to the safety of San Bernardino County residents.”
As these departments take to the skies with their new Subaru Bell 412EPXs, it’s clear that Southern California’s sheriffs are not just upgrading their fleets — they’re setting new heights for public safety.
