If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a helicopter—perhaps for personal adventure or to expand your business fleet—here’s your shot: the New York State Office of General Services has just launched an online auction for a 2001 Bell 430 helicopter, running live now and closing on May 30th at 1 PM ET. This isn’t just any chopper; it’s a well-maintained workhorse with a modest 4,727 hours logged, two sturdy Rolls-Royce 250-C40 twin engines clocking decent hours, and over thirteen thousand landings under its belt, freshly inspected as of last June.
The Bell 430 is a versatile twin-engine helicopter favored by police and government fleets, celebrated for its spacious interior and dependable performance. This particular aircraft was removed from service in April 2025 and is listed in good working condition, presenting a rare opportunity to acquire a reliable rotorcraft without the new-price tag.
Bid participation is straightforward: you’ll need to register for free on GovDeals, the go-to online auction platform for government surplus assets. GovDeals boasts millions of customers worldwide and allows government entities to sell assets transparently and with lower fees than traditional auction houses. Whether you’re an aviation collector, a corporate buyer, or just someone with a taste for flying, this auction is your front-row ticket.
Keep in mind, government surplus auctions typically sell assets “as is, where is,” so due diligence is key. But with the Bell 430’s recent inspection and detailed engine hours available, you’re getting a clearer picture than usual. Clear calendars, create your GovDeals account, and prepare your bids before May 30th — this helicopter could be yours to pilot into new skies.
Context & Background
The Bell 430 helicopter is a midsize twin-engine rotorcraft known for its reliability, versatility, and smooth performance. Introduced in the late 1990s, the Bell 430 gained prominence in public safety, corporate transport, and emergency medical services due to its roomy cabin and advanced avionics for its time. Its two Rolls-Royce 250-C40 engines deliver robust power and efficiency, making it a favorite among police forces and government operations alike.
GovDeals is a major online marketplace specializing in auctioning surplus government and educational assets—vehicles, equipment, machinery, and more—via transparent, “as is, where is” sales. The platform serves as a bridge between government agencies downsizing their fleets or assets and buyers hunting for unique deals on government-used equipment.
Previous government helicopter auctions typically attract a niche yet passionate crowd: aviation enthusiasts, private operators, and companies looking to acquire aircraft at prices favorable compared to new helicopters, which often cost millions. The helicopter’s relatively low flight hours and recent inspections make this 2001 Bell 430 unusual in the surplus market, signaling a well-maintained machine ready for new missions.
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