Bell Helicopter tests its new aircraft near Mount Everest

Bell Helicopter gave its new 412EPI helicopter a tough test recently near Mount Everest in Nepal demonstrating takeoffs and landings at 15,200 feet and hovering in ground effect at nearly 18,000 feet density altitude, then climbing nearly 20,000 feet in the new 14-passenger craft.

“The Bell 412EPI received praise for its smooth ride, maneuverability and increased performance in high altitudes, proving that our products are built to perform in the highest terrain on the planet,” said Sameer Rehman, Bell’s managing director, Asia Pacific.