Fleet
HB-XSB - BELL 205 A1++
The Bell 204 and 205 are the civilian versions of the single-engine military UH-1 Iroquois helicopter, part of the historic Huey family. Certified in the “transport” category, they are used in a wide range of operations, including agricultural spraying, cargo lifting, forestry work, and aerial firefighting.
The model in question, originally developed as the Bell 205 A1, has undergone a significant upgrade through the integration of more modern and safer components, based on technologies developed over time by Bell. While retaining the original airframe, the aircraft has been fitted with the mechanical systems, rotor blades, and main rotor head of the Bell 212, resulting in a considerable improvement in performance and reliability. In addition, it features several next-generation optional systems derived from the Bell 412. Thanks to these upgrades, the current configuration is commonly referred to as the Bell 205++.
For comparison, the Airbus H125 (formerly AS350 B3e) can carry approximately 1,000 kg, while for heavier loads, the only alternative used until now has been the Super Puma, with a maximum payload of around 4,500 kg. Between these two extremes, no single-engine helicopter capable of efficiently managing intermediate loads had ever been developed. A possible alternative is the Kaman K-1200 (better known as K-max), which shares the same engine as the Bell 205++, but requires a far more complex flight management system, which is also significantly more expensive to operate.
For these reasons, Heli-TV has chosen to operate the Bell 205 A1++ as the ideal solution for all missions requiring the transport of loads between 1,000 and 2,000 kg, without the need to deploy the more costly Super Puma, which is reserved for the most demanding operations.
Typical missions: logging (timber extraction), installation of conveyor systems and other equipment for ski lifts, firefighting with a 1,900-litre bucket, traditional cargo flights up to 2,000 kg, and "special flights" involving precision lifting or transport of items such as excavators, cranes, pools, vehicles, etc.
With the Bell 205 A1++ we are authorized to operate throughout the European Union.
Maximum takeoff weight: 4,760 kg
Maximum weight on cargo hook: 2,000 kg*
Engine: Lycoming T5317B
Takeoff power: 1,800 hp
Maximum speed (VNE): 190 km/h
Cruise speed: 170 km/h
Maximum range: 550 km
Maximum number of passengers (including pilot): 15