Airbus Helicopters H130 vs Bell 505 Jetranger X vs Leonardo Sh09

The Airbus Helicopters H130 is a single‑engine light helicopter positioned toward the upper end of the “light single” category, commonly used for passenger transport and tourism; it typically offers the highest passenger capacity of the three, usually accommodating a pilot plus up to six passengers depending on configuration, and it generally delivers the longest practical range in this comparison. The Bell 505 JetRanger X is also a light single, optimized for simplicity, training, and utility missions; it typically carries a pilot plus up to four passengers and offers a moderate range that is usually less than the H130 but competitive within its class. The Leonardo SH09 (often referenced as the AW09) is a newer‑generation light single intended to bridge utility and passenger roles; it is generally expected to seat around a pilot plus up to six passengers and to offer a range that is broadly in the H130 class, depending on final certification and tank options. Overall, H130 and SH09/AW09 tend to align on higher capacity and longer legs, while the Bell 505 emphasizes lighter, lower‑capacity operations.