Bell have announced that the Queensland Police Service (QPS) has entered into a second service provision contract for QPS POLAIR services for three additional Bell 429s, which will expand the number of Bell helicopters in its current fleet to six.

In 2022, contract provider Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) signed for three Bell 429s, operating the QPS POLAIR fleet responsible for patrolling and supporting on-ground policing efforts in southeast Queensland.

The new batch of Bell 429s is part of a POLAIR service provision contract between QPS and Townsville-based Meridian Helicopters to provide a similar airborne law enforcement capability in north Queensland for the next 10 years.

“It fills us with much pride to have QPS and their service providers see the immense value the Bell 429 brings to the table, especially in keeping Queenslanders, far and wide, safe. The addition of these three aircraft will enhance QPS’ aerial functions, improve response times and support critical missions, reinforcing the global reputation of the Bell 429 as a high quality and reliable law enforcement platform,” said Daniel McQuestin, business development director for Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Rim, Bell.