Bell 222/230

The Bell 222 is an American twin-engine light helicopter built by Bell Helicopter, and the Bell 230 is an improved development with different engines. Bell announced the 222 in the mid-1970s as the first light commercial twin-turbine helicopter developed in the United States. It has dual hydraulic and electrical systems, sponsons that house the retractable landing gear, and a vibration reduction system developed for the Bell 214ST. The first 222 flew on 13 August 1976, the FAA certified it on 16 August 1979 and deliveries began in January 1980. The 230 replaced the 222's Lycoming engines with Allison 250 turboshafts and first flew on 12 August 1991. Production of the 230 ended in 1995 after 38 were built, and the stretched Bell 430 replaced it.