Airbus Helicopters H125 vs Airbus Helicopters H130 vs Bell 505 Jetranger X vs Md Helicopters Md 500e

Airbus Helicopters’ H125 is a single‑engine utility helicopter in the light single category, typically configured for about five to six passengers (depending on seating layout), with a generally longer range than most peers in this class. The H130 is also a light single but optimized more for passenger comfort and sightseeing/VIP work, commonly carrying around six to seven passengers; its range is broadly similar to the H125 but can be slightly shorter depending on configuration and reserves. Bell’s 505 JetRanger X sits in the smaller light single segment, usually carrying about four passengers plus a pilot, and tends to offer a moderate range that is generally below the H125/H130 class but competitive for training, patrol, and light utility missions. The MD Helicopters MD 500E is a light single known for agility and speed, typically arranged for about four passengers plus a pilot; its range is usually in the same general neighborhood as the Bell 505, often lower than the larger‑cabin H125/H130, with exact figures varying notably by fuel fit, payload, and operating profile.