Bell to Acquire Aviation Service

Bell Helicopter announced its plan to acquire Czech Republic avionics solutions developer Aviation Service.

U.S. company Bell says it will purchase Aviation Service in a move to expand its footprint in the European market offering aircraft customer support and service.

Bell announced the acquisition is also part of a strategic initiative to ensure its military and commercial helicopters operated by European customers have access to a centrally located service facility.

"Bell is committed to meeting the needs of our European customers; this acquisition allows us to more rapidly provide support and service to this important region," John Garrison, Bell president and chief executive officer, said in a statement.

"This facility provides us with the capabilities to meet the maintenance and modernization needs of Bell's current European fleet of aircraft, while providing a foundation to accommodate future growth with local completion and customizing capability for new aircraft deliveries."