Bell Textron has boosted its helicopter MRO capabilities in China by acquiring Zhenjiang Aerochine Aviation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Aerochine Aviation. The facility was previously appointed as an authorised maintenance centre and has been renamed Zhenjiang Bell Textron Aviation Service.
Zhenjiang Bell is a Part 145 repair station certified by the Civil Aviation Administration of China. The acquisition enables Bell to provide MRO services directly to operators in China for the Bell 407 and 206 models, with plans to add all operational models, including the Bell 505, Bell 429, Bell 412 and legacy types, in the future.
“Bell is known worldwide for its industry-leading support and services, and this milestone will enhance our award-winning customer service in China,” said Michael Reagan, director of Bell Support & Services – international. “The growing fleet in China warrants an OEM MRO centre, so we decided to further increase our investment in China.”
“This acquisition showcases our commitment to provide our know-how and expertise to our customers locally,” said Jacinto Monge, managing director of Bell North Asia. “Our customers are our priority, and we will continue to focus on providing them with an excellent experience throughout the lifetime of their aircraft, right here in China.”
“Celebration Aerochine’s 10-year anniversary as a Bell independent representative, the sale of the MRO operation is a vote of confidence and recognition of the company’s contribution in the China market,” said Diana Chou, founder and chairman of Aerochine. “We will continue to work alongside Bell to serve our customers.”
There are now approximately 200 Bell helicopters operating across China. In addition to the new MRO centre, Bell also has a supply centre in Shanghai and multiple authorised maintenance facilities providing MRO support to its customers.
