Bell Helicopter has announced that the Bell 505 Jet Ranger X has been certified by the Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA). Transport Canada joined Bell Helicopter at its Mirabel facility to commemorate the achievement.

After a first flight in November 2014, the new light single has flown more than 1,000 flight hours. Three flight test vehicles have been used. Bell reports more than 400 letters of intent worldwide for the 505.

The Bell 505 is powered by the Safran Helicopter Engines (HE) Arrius 2R engine incorporating dual-channel Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC). The 505 is the first Bell product to be equipped with an engine from the French firm, formerly known as Turbomeca. The Garmin G1000H flight deck features dual 10.4-inch (26.4cm) displays.

Bell helicopters are backed by more than 100 Authorized Customer Service Facilities located around the globe. The company is offering expanded Customer Advantage Plans (CAP) in combination with Safran HE's Support By The Hour plan, with fixed-price-per-flight-hour solutions.

The Bell 505 offers a cruise speed of 125 knots (232km/h), range of 340 nautical miles (629km) and useful load of 1,470 pounds (667kg). The flat-floor cabin can be configured to carry up to four passengers or to perform internal cargo missions by removing quick disconnect rear cabin seats and/or copilot seat.