Airbus Helicopters H145 vs Robinson Helicopters R66
The Airbus Helicopters H145 is a twin‑engine, medium utility helicopter commonly used for EMS, police, offshore support, and corporate transport, while the Robinson R66 is a single‑engine, light helicopter typically aimed at private, training, and light utility roles. In category terms, the H145 sits in a higher capability class with greater redundancy and mission equipment options, whereas the R66 prioritizes simplicity and lower operating cost. For range, the H145 generally offers a longer and more flexible operational reach thanks to larger fuel capacity and mission-configurable tanks, typically on the order of roughly 350–400+ nautical miles depending on configuration and reserves. The R66’s typical range is shorter, commonly around roughly 300–350 nautical miles, varying with fuel load, speed, and conditions. Passenger capacity also differs noticeably. The H145 is usually configured for one or two pilots plus about six to eight passengers (or a medical cabin layout), while the R66 is normally one pilot plus up to four passengers, reflecting its lighter class and smaller cabin.
| Spec | AIRBUS H145 | ROBINSON R66 |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 9.31 | $ 3.49 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 10 | 5 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | VFR |
| Manufacturer | Airbus Helicopters | Robinson Helicopters |
| Aircraft Name | H145 | R66 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 352 | 350 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.93 | $ 0.70 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 9 | — |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 4200 | 1355 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 3 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 1,210 | $ 384 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | EFIS | Gyro / Analog |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 130 | 110 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $10,200,000 | $ 920,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 10 | 5 |
| Configuration | Green Interior | — |
| Max Cabin Seats | 9 | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 3 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | No |
| Model | Arriel 2E | RR300 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 2000 |
| Horsepower | 894 | 300 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 1 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | — | 73.6 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 44.8 | 38.3 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 13 | 11.4 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 36.1 | 33 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 166 | 50 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 46.8 | 18 |