Airbus Helicopters H125 vs Airbus Helicopters H130 vs Leonardo Aw109 Grand New
In category, the Airbus H125 is a light single‑engine helicopter optimized for utility work and high‑and‑hot performance, often chosen for lift capability, rugged operations, and mission flexibility. The Airbus H130 is also a light single‑engine helicopter but is positioned more toward passenger comfort and tourism/VIP use, emphasizing low cabin noise, smooth ride, and a spacious cabin for its class. The Leonardo AW109 Grand New is a light twin‑engine helicopter aimed at faster, higher‑end corporate/VIP and premium utility missions, with the added redundancy and performance typical of twins. For range, the H125 and H130 generally sit in a similar band for practical mission planning, with the H130 often marketed with strong touring-range credentials, while the AW109 Grand New typically offers comparable or better point‑to‑point capability depending on configuration and reserves, aided by its efficient cruise profile. For passenger capacity, H125 and H130 commonly seat a pilot plus up to about six passengers in typical layouts, while the AW109 Grand New often carries a pilot (or two) plus around six to seven passengers depending on interior and weight limits.
| Spec | AIRBUS H125 | AIRBUS H130 | AGUSTA / LEONARDO AW109 Grand New |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summary | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 3 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 4.61 | $ 5.00 | $ 7.31 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 7 | 8 |
| Flight Rules | VFR | VFR | VFR |
| Manufacturer | Airbus Helicopters | Airbus Helicopters | Leonardo |
| Aircraft Name | H125 | H130 | AW109 Grand New |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 341 | 333 | 464 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.77 | $ 0.71 | $ 0.91 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 5 | 5 | 6 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | Un-Verified | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 2189 | 2299 | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 4 | 4 | 6 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 627 | $ 640 | $ 1,140 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G500H | Garmin G500H | EFIS |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 136 | 128 | 156 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $3,200,000 | $3,450,000 | $ 7,800,000 |
| Cabin | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 3 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 7 | 8 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 5 | 5 | 6 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 4 | 4 | 6 |
| Engine | |||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Model | Arriel 2D | Arriel 2D | PW207C |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 5000 | 5000 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 847 | 952 | 735 |
| No. of Engines | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 143 | 143 | 152 |
| Dimensions | |||
| Length (ft) | 42.5 | 41.5 | 42.5 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 10 | 11.1 | 11.5 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 36.1 | 35.1 | 35.5 |