Airbus Helicopters H135 vs Airbus Helicopters H145 vs Airbus Helicopters H160 vs Bell 429 Globalranger

The Airbus H135 and Bell 429 GlobalRanger are typically positioned as light, twin‑engine helicopters, while the Airbus H145 sits in the light‑intermediate class and the Airbus H160 in the medium class. In passenger capacity, the H135 generally carries a pilot plus about five to six passengers depending on cabin fit, and the Bell 429 is similar, commonly accommodating around six to seven passengers. The H145 usually steps up to roughly seven to eight passengers in typical corporate or EMS-style layouts, reflecting its larger cabin and higher useful load. The H160 is designed for more space and comfort in the medium segment and is commonly configured for around eight to twelve passengers depending on interior and mission. For range, the H135 and Bell 429 are broadly comparable in the light-twin category, commonly in the several-hundred nautical mile bracket depending on reserves and configuration. The H145 generally offers somewhat more range than the light twins, while the H160 is typically the longest‑legged of the four, benefiting from greater fuel capacity and aerodynamic efficiency.