Airbus Helicopters H155 vs Bell 412epi
The Airbus Helicopters H155 and Bell 412EPi are both twin‑engine, medium-class helicopters, but they are optimized for somewhat different roles. The H155 is typically positioned as a modern, high-comfort medium twin often favored for executive/VIP transport and offshore or public service missions where cabin refinement and efficient cruise matter. The Bell 412EPi is a proven utility-oriented medium twin, widely used for public safety, EMS, firefighting support, and general-purpose lift, emphasizing ruggedness and operational flexibility. In range terms, the H155 generally offers a longer maximum range in typical configurations, making it more advantageous for longer point-to-point missions, while the 412EPi’s range is usually lower but still solid for regional utility work, especially with appropriate fuel and payload tradeoffs. For passenger capacity, the H155 commonly accommodates around a dozen passengers depending on layout, whereas the 412EPi is often configured for slightly more, frequently up to about the low‑teens, reflecting its utility cabin and seating arrangements. Actual figures vary with mission equipment, interior, and payload requirements.
| Spec | AIRBUS H155 | Bell 412EPi |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 11.06 | $ 12.09 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 14 | 14 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Airbus Helicopters | Bell |
| Aircraft Name | H155 | 412EPi |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 423 | 361 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.74 | $ 0.86 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 13 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 4012 | 4829 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 12 | 13 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 1,593 | $ 1,487 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | EFIS | Bell BasiX-Pro |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 144 | 123 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $14,800,000 | $ 12,500,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 14 | 14 |
| Configuration | Green Interior | — |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 13 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 12 | 13 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | Arriel 2C2 | PT6T-9 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 943 | 1370 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 332 | 330.5 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | — | 113 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 46.9 | 52.1 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 14.3 | 11.5 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 41.1 | 46 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 235.2 | 220 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 88.3 | 28 |
| Width (ft) | — | 33 |