Honolulu Fire Department Selects The Bell 429

Hawaii Public Radio reports that the Honolulu Fire Department has selected the Bell 429 Global Ranger as the helicopter type to eventually replace their aging MD520Ns. The twin-engine Global Ranger can carry more water for aerial firefighting, as well as more on board. HFD felt that it was more cost-effective to purchase a new helicopter, as opposed to trying to maintain the MD520Ns.