Airbus Helicopters H130 vs Airbus Helicopters H135 vs Bell 407gxi"

In category terms, the Airbus H130 and Bell 407GXi are single‑engine light helicopters typically chosen for cost‑efficient utility, tourism, and passenger shuttle work, while the Airbus H135 is a twin‑engine light helicopter more commonly selected where redundancy and higher mission capability are priorities, such as HEMS, law enforcement, and corporate transport. For range, the H135 generally offers the longest practical legs among the three in many typical configurations, benefiting from twin‑engine mission flexibility and cruise efficiency, while the H130 and 407GXi are broadly comparable and often slightly shorter‑range depending on fuel fit and payload. Real‑world range varies significantly with cabin load, reserve requirements, and environmental conditions. For passenger capacity, the H130 usually leads in cabin volume and sightseeing layout, commonly seating a pilot plus up to six passengers. The H135 typically accommodates a pilot plus five to six passengers in passenger transport configurations (or fewer when mission equipment is installed). The Bell 407GXi is commonly configured for a pilot plus five to six passengers, with layout depending on operator needs.