World’s Largest Bell HEMS Operator Adds Bell 429s to Emergency Services Fleet

Global Medical Response has entered into a purchase agreement for seven Bell 429 helicopters, with an option to acquire an additional eight, thereby maintaining its position as the largest operator of Bell helicopters in the Helicopter Emergency Medical Services sector. Headquartered in Lewisville, Texas, Global Medical Response operates 381 bases across all 50 U.S. states and internationally, delivering life-saving care as the foremost provider of comprehensive acute out-of-hospital patient care.

“Bell is proud to continue our work with Global Medical Response as they expand their HEMS fleet operations with their first Bell 429,” shared Lane Evans, managing director of North America, Bell. “The Bell 429 is an incredible platform that was designed with HEMS operators in mind. We believe that the Bell 429 will be a true asset for the Global Medical Response team supporting their critical missions.”

Designed for rapid response, the Bell 429 features BasixPro intuitive displays and wide clamshell doors, making it an optimal choice for HEMS operators. This dual-engine aircraft achieves a swift cruise speed of 150 knots, enabling Global Medical Response to efficiently respond to urgent calls or facilitate interfacility transport when every minute counts. With over 500 Bell 429s in operation worldwide and more than 735,000 flight hours globally, the platform consistently upholds its reputation as one of the most advanced light twin helicopters in its category.

“Adding the Bell 429 to our fleet will allow us to expand access to care to patients who need it,” said Daniel Sweeza, national president of air operations for Global Medical Response. “It also allows us to meet the requests of our healthcare partners, who have been asking for the flexibility the Bell 429 provides. We’re excited to add this airframe to our GMR communities starting in the spring of 2026.”

Following the delivery of Global Medical Response's first IFR-configured Bell 407GXi, Bell has announced this milestone as the initial step in the anticipated delivery of 24 aircraft to the air medical service operator. Currently, Global Medical Response and its affiliates utilise the Bell 407 and Bell 206L platforms to provide emergency care services to local communities.