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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.

SpecAIRBUS H125MD Helicopters MD 520N
Summary
Cockpit22
DOC / nm$ 4.61$ 3.38
Min Crew11
Total Seats64
Flight RulesVFRVFR
ManufacturerAirbus HelicoptersMD Helicotpers
Aircraft NameH125MD 520N
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)341210
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.77$ 0.85
Max Cabin Seats53
OEM VerificationVERIFIEDUn-Verified
Useful Load (lbs)21891764
Standard Cabin Seats42
Direct Operating Cost$ 627$ 416
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Garmin G500HGyro / Analog
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)136123
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$3,200,000$ 2,900,000
Cabin
Cockpit22
Min Crew11
Total Seats64
Max Cabin Seats53
Standard Cabin Seats42
Engine
FADECYesNo
ModelArriel 2D250-C20R
Fuel TypeJetFuelJetFuel
TBO (hrs)50003500
Horsepower847450
No. of Engines11
Fuel Capacity (gal)14364
Fuel Burn (gph)35
Dimensions
Length (ft)42.531.4
Overall Height (ft)108.8
Rotor Diameter (ft)36.127.4