Airbus Helicopters H130 vs Leonardo Sh09 vs Md Helicopters Md 600n

The Airbus Helicopters H130 and the MD Helicopters MD 600N sit in the light single‑engine utility/tour market, while the Leonardo SH09 was conceived as a newer‑generation light single intended to compete in the same general space. In category terms, the H130 is widely established in passenger transport, tourism, and VIP roles; the MD 600N is also a light single but is differentiated by its NOTAR anti‑torque system rather than a conventional tail rotor; the SH09 was positioned as a modern light single with an emphasis on efficient operations and contemporary systems. For range, all three are broadly comparable as light singles, typically suited to short‑to‑medium sectors rather than long‑range missions. Real‑world range varies significantly with fuel fit, payload, speed, and reserves, but the H130 and MD 600N generally align in the same operational bracket, while published targets for the SH09 aimed to be competitive with peers. On passenger capacity, the H130 is usually the leader, commonly configured for a pilot plus up to about seven passengers in high‑density layouts. The MD 600N typically carries fewer, often a pilot plus about five to six passengers depending on configuration. The SH09 was generally marketed around a pilot plus about six to seven seats, again depending on final interior and certification choices.