Airbus Helicopters H145 vs Bell 429 Globalranger vs Leonardo Aw109 Grand New
In category terms, the Airbus Helicopters H145 and Bell 429 GlobalRanger are typically positioned as light twin‑engine utility/EMS-capable helicopters, while the Leonardo AW109 Grand New is commonly viewed as a light twin oriented more toward fast, premium passenger transport and corporate/VIP missions, though it is also used for EMS and law enforcement. For range, all three sit in a broadly similar light‑twin bracket, but they differ by configuration and reserves. The H145 is often selected for missions that emphasize useful load and cabin volume over maximum cruise speed, offering competitive real-world mission range. The Bell 429 is generally comparable, with strong all-around performance and a mission radius that remains competitive for regional transport. The AW109 Grand New is frequently noted for higher cruise speed and can deliver solid point-to-point capability; depending on fit and fuel options, its range can be competitive within this class, but mission endurance is highly interior- and payload-dependent. For passenger capacity, the H145 typically offers the most flexible cabin and can seat more passengers in high-density layouts. The Bell 429 commonly supports a mid-range passenger count with a roomy cabin. The AW109 Grand New usually carries fewer passengers in more comfort-focused executive layouts.
| Spec | AIRBUS H145 | Bell 429 GlobalRanger | AGUSTA / LEONARDO AW109 Grand New |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summary | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 9.31 | $ 6.29 | $ 7.31 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 10 | 8 | 8 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | IFR | VFR |
| Manufacturer | Airbus Helicopters | Bell | Leonardo |
| Aircraft Name | H145 | 429 GlobalRanger | AW109 Grand New |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 352 | 365 | 464 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.93 | $ 0.79 | $ 0.91 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 9 | 6 | 6 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified | VERIFIED | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 4200 | 2535 | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 6 | 6 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 1,210 | $ 931 | $ 1,140 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | EFIS | Bell BasiX-Pro | EFIS |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 130 | 148 | 156 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $10,200,000 | $7,500,000 | $ 7,800,000 |
| Cabin | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 10 | 8 | 8 |
| Configuration | Green Interior | — | — |
| Max Cabin Seats | 9 | 6 | 6 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 6 | 6 |
| Engine | |||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Model | Arriel 2E | PW207D1 | PW207C |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 4000 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 894 | 1100 | 735 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | — | 76 | — |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | — | 216.9 | 152 |
| Dimensions | |||
| Length (ft) | 44.8 | 43 | 42.5 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 13 | 13.25 | 11.5 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 36.1 | 36 | 35.5 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 166 | 130 | — |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 46.8 | 74 | — |
| Width (ft) | — | 26.37 | — |
| Cabin Width (ft) | — | 5 | — |
| Cabin Height (ft) | — | 4 | — |
| Cabin Length (ft) | — | 6.58 | — |