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Airbus Helicopters H135 vs Md Helicopters Md 902 Exlplorer

In category, the Airbus Helicopters H135 is a light twin‑engine multi‑mission helicopter commonly used for HEMS, law enforcement, and corporate transport, emphasizing low vibration and a modern, widely supported platform. The MD Helicopters MD 902 Explorer is also a light twin, best known for its NOTAR (no tail rotor) anti‑torque system, which can reduce tail‑rotor hazards and external noise in certain profiles, and it is often positioned for public safety and utility roles. On range, both are in a similar light‑twin class, but typical published figures generally place the H135 with a modest advantage in usable range and cruise efficiency depending on variant, fuel fit, and mission equipment. Real‑world range for either can vary significantly with payload, reserves, and environmental conditions. For passenger capacity, both can be configured for roughly one to two pilots plus up to about six to seven passengers, again depending on interior layout and mission kit. The H135 is frequently optimized for EMS cabin access and medical fit-outs, while the MD 902’s cabin and NOTAR design can be attractive for operations in confined or hazard‑sensitive areas.

SpecAIRBUS H135MD Helicopters MD 902 Exlplorer
Summary
Cockpit22
DOC / nm$ 6.33$ 7.54
Min Crew11
Total Seats98
Flight RulesIFRVFR
ManufacturerAirbus HelicoptersMD Helicotpers
Aircraft NameH135MD 902 Exlplorer
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)342317
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.79$ 0.94
Max Cabin Seats76
OEM VerificationUn-VerifiedUn-Verified
Useful Load (lbs)31243125
Standard Cabin Seats76
Direct Operating Cost$ 861$ 988
Flight Deck (Base Spec)HelionixGarmin G500H
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)136131
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$6,150,000 $7,250,000
Cabin
Cockpit22
Min Crew11
Total Seats98
ConfigurationGreen Interior
Max Cabin Seats76
Standard Cabin Seats76
Engine
FADECYesNo
ModelArrius 2B2+PW207E
Fuel TypeJetFuelJetFuel
TBO (hrs)40004000
Horsepower660710
No. of Engines22
Fuel Burn (gph)65
Fuel Capacity (gal)159
Dimensions
Length (ft)33.540.6
Overall Height (ft)12.612
Rotor Diameter (ft)3433.9
Cabin Volume (cu. ft)173