Airbus Helicopters H125 vs Robinson Helicopters R66
The Airbus Helicopters H125 (formerly AS350) and the Robinson R66 are both single‑engine light utility helicopters, but they sit in different “weight and mission” bands. The H125 is typically viewed as a higher‑capacity, more work‑focused aircraft commonly used for utility, aerial work, EMS support roles, and operations in hot‑and‑high environments, while the R66 is positioned as a lighter, simpler turbine helicopter often chosen for private, training, and light commercial missions where acquisition and operating costs are key drivers. In range, both can cover a few hundred nautical miles depending on configuration, reserves, and optional tanks, but the H125 generally offers the stronger range/payload flexibility when equipped for longer legs or when carrying a useful load. For passenger capacity, the H125 commonly accommodates a pilot plus up to five passengers (high‑density layouts vary by interior), whereas the R66 is typically configured for a pilot plus four passengers, reflecting its smaller cabin and lower gross weight.
| Spec | AIRBUS H125 | ROBINSON R66 |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 4.61 | $ 3.49 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 5 |
| Flight Rules | VFR | VFR |
| Manufacturer | Airbus Helicopters | Robinson Helicopters |
| Aircraft Name | H125 | R66 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 341 | 350 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.77 | $ 0.70 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 5 | — |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 2189 | 1355 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 4 | 3 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 627 | $ 384 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G500H | Gyro / Analog |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 136 | 110 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $3,200,000 | $ 920,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 5 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 5 | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 4 | 3 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | No |
| Model | Arriel 2D | RR300 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 5000 | 2000 |
| Horsepower | 847 | 300 |
| No. of Engines | 1 | 1 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 143 | 73.6 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 42.5 | 38.3 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 10 | 11.4 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 36.1 | 33 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | — | 50 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | — | 18 |