Airbus Helicopters H125 vs Bell 505 Jetranger X vs Robinson Helicopters R66
The Airbus Helicopters H125 sits in the light single‑engine utility category and is generally the most capable for lifting and mission flexibility in this group. It typically carries a pilot plus up to five passengers (six total) depending on configuration, and its practical range is commonly in the mid‑300 to roughly 400 nautical mile class, varying with fuel, payload, and reserves. The Bell 505 JetRanger X is also a light single‑engine helicopter aimed at training, tourism, and light utility work. It is usually configured for a pilot plus four passengers (five total). Its typical range is broadly similar but often a bit lower than an H125 in comparable conditions, commonly around the low‑ to mid‑300 nautical mile range. The Robinson R66 is a light single‑engine turbine helicopter positioned as a cost‑conscious utility and personal aircraft. It generally seats a pilot plus four passengers (five total). Its typical range is in the same broad band as the Bell 505, often around the low‑300 nautical mile class, depending strongly on fuel load and power settings.
| Spec | AIRBUS H125 | Bell 505 JetRanger X | ROBINSON R66 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summary | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 4.61 | $ 3.53 | $ 3.49 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 5 | 5 |
| Flight Rules | VFR | VFR | VFR |
| Manufacturer | Airbus Helicopters | Bell | Robinson Helicopters |
| Aircraft Name | H125 | 505 JetRanger X | R66 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 341 | 306 | 350 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.77 | $ 0.71 | $ 0.70 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 5 | — | — |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | VERIFIED | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 2189 | 1500 | 1355 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 4 | 3 | 3 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 627 | $ 441 | $ 384 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G500H | Garmin G1000H | Gyro / Analog |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 136 | 125 | 110 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $3,200,000 | $1,445,000 | $ 920,000 |
| Cabin | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 5 | 5 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 5 | — | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 4 | 3 | 3 |
| Engine | |||
| FADEC | Yes | Dual-Channel | No |
| Model | Arriel 2D | Arrius 2R | RR300 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 5000 | 4000 | 2000 |
| Horsepower | 847 | 505 | 300 |
| No. of Engines | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 143 | 84.85 | 73.6 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | — | 32.3 | — |
| Dimensions | |||
| Length (ft) | 42.5 | 42.48 | 38.3 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 10 | 10.65 | 11.4 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 36.1 | 37 | 33 |
| Width (ft) | — | 6.51 | — |
| Cabin Width (ft) | — | 4.66 | — |
| Cabin Height (ft) | — | 2.75 | — |
| Cabin Length (ft) | — | 7.17 | — |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | — | 137 | 50 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | — | 18 | 18 |