Bell Textron Inc. Partners with Texas DPS: New Bell 407GXi Helicopter Joins the Fleet
Bell Textron Inc. has proudly announced a purchase agreement with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) for a Bell 407GXi high-performance helicopter. This agreement continues a partnership that has spanned over 75 years.
The announcement was made during the annual VAI Verticon conference in Atlanta on March 10, 2026. The new Bell 407GXi is set to join the Texas DPS Aircraft Operations Division. This division provides statewide air patrol, criminal surveillance, and rescue support across Texas. The department currently operates a Bell 412EP alongside its existing fleet.
The relationship between Texas DPS and Bell began in 1948 when the department established its aviation operations with two Bell 47 helicopters. This made Bell the agency’s first public safety rotorcraft provider. The addition of the Bell 407GXi reflects the department’s continued confidence in Bell’s reliability and mission solutions.
“The addition of this Bell aircraft to our fleet represents a significant investment in our operational reliability and public safety missions,” said Stacy Holland, chief pilot of the Texas Department of Public Safety Aircraft Operations Division. “Greater reliability translates directly into faster response times, added support for our partners on the ground, and provides an even higher level of service to the communities we are proud to protect.”
The Bell 407GXi is designed to deliver exceptional performance, reliability, and versatility. Equipped with advanced avionics, safety features, cargo hooks, and a spacious cabin, the aircraft is ideally suited for public safety operations. Lane Evans, managing director of North America sales for Bell, noted that the company is honored to continue supporting Texas law enforcement with advanced mission capabilities.