Airbus Helicopters H125 vs Md Helicopters Md 520n
The Airbus Helicopters H125 and the MD Helicopters MD 520N both sit in the light single‑engine utility helicopter space, but they target different priorities. The H125 is generally positioned as a higher‑payload, high‑altitude-capable utility platform commonly used for passenger transport, EMS support roles, aerial work, and operations in hot-and-high environments. The MD 520N is a lighter, more compact light utility helicopter, often favored for missions where agility and a smaller footprint matter. On range, the H125 typically offers a longer practical reach than the MD 520N, making it better suited to longer point-to-point legs or jobs that benefit from more endurance and fuel margin. The MD 520N’s range is usually more modest, aligning with shorter-duration utility, patrol, or local-area missions. For passenger capacity, the H125 commonly carries more people, usually configured for a pilot plus up to five passengers, whereas the MD 520N is typically configured for fewer occupants, often a pilot plus around four passengers depending on interior layout and mission equipment.
| Spec | AIRBUS H125 | MD Helicopters MD 520N |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 4.61 | $ 3.38 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 4 |
| Flight Rules | VFR | VFR |
| Manufacturer | Airbus Helicopters | MD Helicotpers |
| Aircraft Name | H125 | MD 520N |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 341 | 210 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.77 | $ 0.85 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 5 | 3 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 2189 | 1764 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 4 | 2 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 627 | $ 416 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G500H | Gyro / Analog |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 136 | 123 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $3,200,000 | $ 2,900,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 4 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 5 | 3 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 4 | 2 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | No |
| Model | Arriel 2D | 250-C20R |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 5000 | 3500 |
| Horsepower | 847 | 450 |
| No. of Engines | 1 | 1 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 143 | 64 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | — | 35 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 42.5 | 31.4 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 10 | 8.8 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 36.1 | 27.4 |