The Bell 407 is a lightweight seven seat multi-role helicopter with a radius of 575 km, powered by a single Allison 250-C47 turboshaft engine. The Bell 407 concept is a result of the in 1993 started development work for a replacement for the Bell JetRanger and LongRanger. The first Bell 407 helicopter was a 206L3 LongRanger modified to the Bell 407 concept that flew first on 21 April 1994. The first preproduction 407 flew in June 1995. Since its FAA certification in February 1996, Bell has delivered over 625 of the helicopter to customers throughout the world.

Bell Helicopter Textron 407 D-HUTA of Heliteam Sued was registered in Germany in October 1997. The 1997-built chopper was photographed at the helipad of the "Circuit van Drenthe" near Assen in the Netherlands when operated as a camera helicopter during the 75th Dutch TT. The D-HUTA was operated for broadcasting duties together with the Bell 206L-3 Long Ranger III D-HOPY of Heliteam Süd.