Airbus Helicopters H135 vs Bell 429 vs Leonardo Aw109k
The Airbus Helicopters H135 is a light twin‑engine helicopter typically categorized for multi‑mission and utility roles, including emergency medical services, law enforcement, corporate/VIP transport, and training. In category terms, it sits above single‑engine light helicopters by offering twin‑engine redundancy and generally lower cabin noise and vibration, while remaining smaller and less costly to operate than larger medium twins used for heavier lift or longer offshore missions. Its range is best described as moderate for the class: it is well suited to regional point‑to‑point flights, urban or suburban coverage, and time‑critical missions, but it is not designed for very long overwater sectors or extended endurance profiles that larger airframes with greater fuel capacity can support. Passenger capacity is also moderate: the H135 commonly carries a pilot plus several passengers in a commuter or VIP configuration, or it can be arranged for mission equipment such as a medical cabin with crew and patient, trading seats for specialized interior space.
| Spec | AIRBUS H135 |
|---|---|
| Summary | |
| Cockpit | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 6.33 |
| Min Crew | 1 |
| Total Seats | 9 |
| Flight Rules | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Airbus Helicopters |
| Aircraft Name | H135 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 342 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.79 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 7 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 3124 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 7 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 861 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Helionix |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 136 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $6,150,000 |
| Cabin | |
| Cockpit | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 |
| Total Seats | 9 |
| Configuration | Green Interior |
| Max Cabin Seats | 7 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 7 |
| Engine | |
| FADEC | Yes |
| Model | Arrius 2B2+ |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 660 |
| No. of Engines | 2 |
| Dimensions | |
| Length (ft) | 33.5 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 12.6 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 34 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 173 |