Minnesota Adds A Powerful New Helicopter For Lifesaving Rescues

The Minnesota State Patrol recently took another step in protecting and serving residents in Minnesota when they added a new bird to their fleet. Well, a new helicopter to be exact. 

Late last week, the State Patrol announced the addition of a Bell 429 helicopter. The 429 offers a feature that the two older helicopters in the fleet do not have, the ability to keep flying if an engine goes down.  

The new helicopter features two engines so if one goes down, the helicopter can stay in the air long enough to get back to the airport. 

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The goal of having a third helicopter was more than just upgrading the fleet; the 429 will be a vital tool in completing rescue missions in remote locations around Minnesota. 

This helicopter has a side mounted hoist system that allows rescue crews to be able to lift a patient directly into the cabin of the helicopter that will be vital being used in locations with tough terrain. 

In the past, the 409 helicopters were limited to where they could respond, but the more up to date 429 allows rescuers to expand their search areas into tougher areas around the state. 

Another feature is this helicopter is faster and safer and gets both the victims and the rescuer out of harm's way quicker, which is good for everyone.
Before, the helicopter would have to land to get crews in position, but now the helicopter will be able to hover over the scene and lower rescuers down and retrieve the injured party and be on their way out of the scene in around 15 minutes.  

The State Patrol says this helicopter will also be available to be used in search missions and will be a valuable asset to traffic enforcement if needed as well.  

In 2023, the Minnesota Legislature approved 14.4 million dollars for the aircraft, cameras, systems and other equipment that will aid in getting help to Minnesotans in need faster and safer.