Capitol Helicopters adds advanced Bell 412EPX to boost wildfire response fleet

Capitol Helicopters, based in Sacramento, California, has officially taken delivery of a new Bell 412EPX, signaling an upgrade from its legacy Bell 212 model for wildfire response operations across the Mountain West, USA.

The aircraft was delivered from Bell’s completion center in Piney Flats, Tennessee. Equipped specifically for utility and firefighting tasks, the helicopter features a cargo hook, side mirrors, and large full‑door bubble windows to optimize vertical visibility for load-lifting operations.

The Bell 412EPX is the latest variant in the 412 series, merging proven legacy performance with modern enhancements. Built under license by Subaru in Japan, the EPX incorporates laser‑peening technology in the mast‑hub, boosting transmission torque output by approximately 11% over the preceding EPI variant. This allows the helicopter to sustain continuous operations at maximum torque and hover at high altitudes under one-engine inoperative conditions, tested up to 7,000ft pressure altitude.

In terms of capabilities, the 412EPX offers a maximum internal take-off weight of 12,200lb, external gross weight of 13,000lb, and a cargo-hook capacity up to 5,000lb, enabling a useful internal load of 5,385 lb. It cruises at around 123kts (228km/h), with a maximum range of roughly 669km and an endurance nearing 3.8 hours in standard configuration.

Globally, more than 54% of the Bell 412 fleet serves in para‑public or military roles. The EPX model has secured orders from operators including the Japan Coast Guard, San Diego Fire-Rescue, Croatia’s Ministry of Interior, and, notably, the Tunisian Air Force in a contract for 12 aircraft announced at the Paris Air Show 2025.

For Capitol Helicopters, the addition of the 412EPX enhances their firefighting fleet’s capacity to lift heavier loads, extend operational reach, and deliver superior aerial performance in demanding terrain and high-altitude environments.

GPMS International recently announced that Capitol Helicopters is deploying Foresight MX throughout its fleet, which includes Bell 407, Bell 412, Bell 429, and UH-60 Black Hawk aircraft.