Airbus Helicopters H135 vs Leonardo Aw119kx
The Airbus Helicopters H135 is a twin‑engine light helicopter typically positioned for roles where redundancy and all‑weather capability are valued, such as EMS, law enforcement, and corporate transport. The Leonardo AW119Kx is a single‑engine light helicopter often chosen for lower operating costs and strong performance in utility and training missions. In category terms, the H135’s twin engines generally make it the more conservative choice for overwater, night, or IFR‑oriented operations (when equipped and certified accordingly), while the AW119Kx focuses on simplicity and payload efficiency typical of modern singles. For range, both are in a broadly similar light‑helicopter bracket, but the AW119Kx often advertises a higher maximum range depending on configuration and reserves, whereas the H135’s practical range varies notably with mission equipment and fuel options. For passenger capacity, both can be configured for a single pilot plus multiple passengers; the H135 commonly seats around six to seven passengers in typical layouts, while the AW119Kx is usually arranged for about six passengers, with exact numbers depending on interior and weight limits.
| Spec | AIRBUS H135 | AGUSTA / LEONARDO AW119Kx |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 6.33 | $ 6.76 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 9 | 8 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | VFR |
| Manufacturer | Airbus Helicopters | Leonardo |
| Aircraft Name | H135 | AW119Kx |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 342 | 515 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.79 | $ 0.84 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 7 | 6 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 3124 | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 7 | 6 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 861 | $ 885 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Helionix | Garmin G1000H |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 136 | 131 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $6,150,000 | $3,850,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 9 | 8 |
| Configuration | Green Interior | — |
| Max Cabin Seats | 7 | 6 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 7 | 6 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | Arrius 2B2+ | PT6B-37A |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 4500 |
| Horsepower | 660 | 917 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 1 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | — | 160 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 33.5 | 42.5 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 12.6 | 11.9 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 34 | 35.5 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 173 | — |