Airbus Helicopters H155 vs Airbus Helicopters H160 vs Bell 429wlg Globalranger
In category, the Airbus Helicopters H155 and Bell 429WLG GlobalRanger are typically positioned as light twin, multi-mission helicopters suited to corporate/VIP transport, EMS, and utility work, while the Airbus Helicopters H160 is a newer-generation medium twin designed to carry more payload with higher comfort, range, and technology for offshore, public services, and premium transport. For range, the H160 generally offers the longest legs among the three, reflecting its larger class and more efficient design. The H155 usually sits next, providing solid cross-country capability for its light-twin segment. The Bell 429WLG’s range is competitive for a light twin and is often comparable to the H155 depending on configuration, fuel reserves, and mission equipment, but it is commonly viewed as slightly more limited than the H160. In passenger capacity, the H160 typically accommodates the most in cabin seating in many layouts. The H155 and Bell 429WLG are broadly similar, often configured for around six to eight passengers in executive roles, with flexibility varying by interior and mission kit.
| Spec | AIRBUS H155 | AIRBUS H160 | Bell 429WLG GlobalRanger |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summary | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 11.06 | — | $ 6.05 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 14 | 14 | 8 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | IFR | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Airbus Helicopters | Airbus Helicopters | Bell |
| Aircraft Name | H155 | H160 | 429WLG GlobalRanger |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 423 | 460 | 381 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.74 | — | $ 0.76 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 12 | 6 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified | Un-Verified | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 4012 | 3992 | 2528 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 12 | 12 | 6 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 1,593 | — | $ 931 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | EFIS | EFIS | Bell BasiX-Pro |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 144 | 155 | 154 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $14,800,000 | $14,000,000 | $7,700,000 |
| Cabin | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 14 | 14 | 8 |
| Configuration | Green Interior | Green Interior | — |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 12 | 6 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 12 | 12 | 6 |
| Engine | |||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Model | Arriel 2C2 | HE Arrano | PW207D1 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 4000 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 943 | — | 1100 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 332 | — | 216.9 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | — | — | 76 |
| Dimensions | |||
| Length (ft) | 46.9 | 39.4 | 43 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 14.3 | 13.1 | 12.39 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 41.1 | 45.2 | 36 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 235.2 | — | 130 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 88.3 | — | 74 |
| Width (ft) | — | — | 26.37 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | — | — | 5 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | — | — | 4 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | — | — | 6.58 |