Helicopter Joins Museum’s Flying Family

A new chapter begins for a former U. S. Department of Energy helicopter as it lands in the open-air collection of a nuclear science museum. The aircraft, once part of a special emergency unit that handled nuclear incidents, is now displayed alongside iconic warplanes like the B‑29 and B‑52. The helicopter, a twin‑engine Bell 412 HP, spent three decades serving the Nuclear Emergency Support Team. During that time it flew to major public events—presidential inaugurations, the Super Bowl, and national conventions—to protect crowds from potential radiological threats. It also assisted local police, state agencies, and tribal groups in surveying radiation levels during emergency responses.The decision to bring the Bell 412 into the museum’s exhibit came in October 2024. A member of the emergency team informed the museum’s leadership that the aircraft would soon retire, suggesting it could be a valuable addition to the outdoor display. After careful planning, the helicopter was transported from Heritage Park in Albuquerque and positioned between the B‑29 and B‑52, creating a visual link between Cold War history and more recent nuclear safety efforts. The museum’s spokesperson highlighted the significance of this acquisition. “Adding the Bell 412 to our collection marks a milestone, ” she said. “It shows how modern technology supports nuclear safety and civil service, offering visitors a chance to see firsthand an aircraft that played a crucial role in protecting the public. ” The helicopter’s presence underscores the museum’s mission to illustrate all facets of nuclear science—from historical weapons to contemporary emergency response tools. Visitors can now experience the breadth of aviation history and learn how airborne platforms contribute to national security and public safety.