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.
| Spec | AIRBUS H145 | AGUSTA / LEONARDO AW189 |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 9.31 | $ 15.57 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 10 | 21 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Airbus Helicopters | Leonardo |
| Aircraft Name | H145 | AW189 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 352 | 651 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.93 | $ 0.74 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 9 | 19 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 4200 | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 19 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 1,210 | $ 2,413 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | EFIS | EFIS |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 130 | 155 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $10,200,000 | $2,413,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 10 | 21 |
| Configuration | Green Interior | — |
| Max Cabin Seats | 9 | 19 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 19 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | Arriel 2E | CT7-2E1 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 894 | 1983 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 44.8 | 57.8 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 13 | 16.6 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 36.1 | 48 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 166 | 395 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 46.8 | 85 |