Airbus Helicopters H145 vs Leonardo Aw109 Grand New
The Airbus Helicopters H145 and the Leonardo AW109 Grand New sit in different light‑twin categories and are typically chosen for different mission profiles. The H145 is generally considered a larger light twin (often positioned at the upper end of the light segment), while the AW109 Grand New is a lighter, fast light twin commonly associated with executive transport and rapid point‑to‑point flying. In range, both can be configured for solid cross‑country capability, but the AW109 Grand New is often marketed around longer legs in typical VIP fit, whereas the H145’s practical range is frequently shaped by higher cabin loads, mission equipment, and utility or EMS configurations. In real use, either aircraft’s range varies significantly with fuel options, payload, weather, and reserves. For passenger capacity, the H145 usually offers the more spacious cabin and higher typical seating potential, making it well suited to EMS, law enforcement, and multi‑role utility work. The AW109 Grand New typically carries fewer passengers in a more compact cabin, emphasizing comfort and speed over maximum cabin volume.
| Spec | AIRBUS H145 | AGUSTA / LEONARDO AW109 Grand New |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 9.31 | $ 7.31 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 10 | 8 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | VFR |
| Manufacturer | Airbus Helicopters | Leonardo |
| Aircraft Name | H145 | AW109 Grand New |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 352 | 464 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.93 | $ 0.91 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 9 | 6 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 4200 | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 6 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 1,210 | $ 1,140 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | EFIS | EFIS |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 130 | 156 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $10,200,000 | $ 7,800,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 10 | 8 |
| Configuration | Green Interior | — |
| Max Cabin Seats | 9 | 6 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 6 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | Arriel 2E | PW207C |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 894 | 735 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | — | 152 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 44.8 | 42.5 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 13 | 11.5 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 36.1 | 35.5 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 166 | — |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 46.8 | — |