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Airbus Helicopters H145 vs Leonardo Aw189

The Airbus Helicopters H145 and Leonardo AW189 sit in different weight and mission categories. The H145 is a light twin-engine helicopter typically used for EMS, law enforcement, corporate transport, and utility work where low operating costs and access to tight landing areas matter. The AW189 is a larger super‑medium twin designed for higher payload missions such as offshore transport, search and rescue, and long-range utility operations, emphasizing cabin volume and endurance. In range terms, the H145 generally offers a shorter radius suitable for regional missions, while the AW189 typically provides longer range and greater fuel/payload flexibility, making it better suited to extended overwater or remote-area legs. Passenger capacity also reflects the size difference. The H145 is commonly configured for around seven to nine passengers in a transport layout (with flexible medical and mission interiors reducing seats as needed). The AW189 usually carries more, commonly in the mid-to-high teens depending on configuration and regulatory seating, and it provides a larger cabin for passengers or mission equipment.

SpecAIRBUS H145AGUSTA / LEONARDO AW189
Summary
Cockpit22
DOC / nm$ 9.31$ 15.57
Min Crew11
Total Seats1021
Flight RulesIFRIFR
ManufacturerAirbus HelicoptersLeonardo
Aircraft NameH145AW189
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)352651
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.93$ 0.74
Max Cabin Seats919
OEM VerificationUn-VerifiedUn-Verified
Useful Load (lbs)4200
Standard Cabin Seats819
Direct Operating Cost$ 1,210$ 2,413
Flight Deck (Base Spec)EFISEFIS
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)130155
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$10,200,000$2,413,000
Cabin
Cockpit22
Min Crew11
Total Seats1021
ConfigurationGreen Interior
Max Cabin Seats919
Standard Cabin Seats819
Engine
FADECYesYes
ModelArriel 2ECT7-2E1
Fuel TypeJetFuelJetFuel
TBO (hrs)40004000
Horsepower8941983
No. of Engines22
Dimensions
Length (ft)44.857.8
Overall Height (ft)1316.6
Rotor Diameter (ft)36.148
Cabin Volume (cu. ft)166395
Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft)46.885