Bell 525 Relentless
Bell Textron · United States · first flew 2015 · helicopter
The Bell 525 Relentless is a super-medium twin-engine helicopter distinguished by being the first commercial rotorcraft to use fly-by-wire flight controls, offering offshore oil-and-gas operators a spacious, technologically advanced platform.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, rotary |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × turboshaft, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 18.7 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- World's first commercial fly-by-wire helicopter — side-stick controllers replace conventional cyclic
- Large super-medium cabin seating up to 20 passengers with flat floor and stand-up headroom
- Four-blade composite main rotor with distinctive anhedral droop
A large, sleek helicopter with a smooth, rounded fuselage distinctly wider and taller than typical medium twins. The four-blade main rotor with a pronounced droop and the absence of conventional cyclic controls in the cockpit are identifying features for those with access to the interior.
Specifications
- The Bell 525 Relentless has a length of 18.7 m (61 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 16.2 m (53 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 324 km/h (201 mph).
- Typical crew: 2 pilots, up to 18 passengers.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Bell launched the 525 programme in 2012 and flew the prototype in July 2015. Development was set back severely when the prototype was destroyed in a fatal crash in July 2016 during a test flight, killing both crew. A replacement aircraft resumed the flight test programme, but FAA certification has been a lengthy process with the aircraft still awaiting final approval as of mid-2026.
Variants
Only a single configuration has been offered, though Bell has discussed potential military and VIP variants leveraging the fly-by-wire architecture.
Where you'll see it
Not yet in commercial service due to ongoing certification. Offshore operators including Bristow have placed orders in anticipation of eventual approval.
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- Bell V-280 Valor
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- Bell Eagle Eye
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- Changhe Z-18
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