Airbus Helicopters H175 vs Airbus Helicopters H160 vs Bell 412epi
The Airbus H175 and H160 are modern twin‑engine medium helicopters, while the Bell 412EPi is a proven twin‑engine utility helicopter often positioned slightly lower in size and cabin volume than the H175 but broadly comparable in mission set. In range, the H175 and H160 are typically marketed with longer legs for offshore and corporate missions, with the H175 generally emphasizing endurance and payload on longer overwater sectors, and the H160 offering efficient cruise and strong range for its class. The Bell 412EPi’s range is usually shorter than the two Airbus models, reflecting its older airframe lineage, though it remains competitive for regional utility, EMS, and public‑service work. For passenger capacity, the H175 commonly supports the highest seating in typical transport configurations, the H160 generally carries slightly fewer passengers than the H175, and the 412EPi is often configured for fewer passengers than both, depending on interior layout and mission equipment. Exact figures vary by configuration, reserves, and optional tanks.
| Spec | AIRBUS H160 | AIRBUS H175 | Bell 412EPi |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summary | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 14 | 18 | 14 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | IFR | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Airbus Helicopters | Airbus Helicopters | Bell |
| Aircraft Name | H160 | H175 | 412EPi |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 460 | 573 | 361 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 18 | 13 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified | Un-Verified | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 3992 | 6797 | 4829 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 12 | 16 | 13 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | EFIS | EFIS | Bell BasiX-Pro |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 155 | 149 | 123 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $14,000,000 | $17,900,000 | $ 12,500,000 |
| DOC / nm | — | $ 13.53 | $ 12.09 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | — | $ 0.75 | $ 0.86 |
| Direct Operating Cost | — | $ 2,016 | $ 1,487 |
| Cabin | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 14 | 18 | 14 |
| Configuration | Green Interior | — | — |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 18 | 13 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 12 | 16 | 13 |
| Engine | |||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Model | HE Arrano | PT6A-67E | PT6T-9 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 3500 | 4000 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Horsepower | — | 1775 | 1370 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | — | — | 113 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | — | — | 330.5 |
| Dimensions | |||
| Length (ft) | 39.4 | 59.2 | 52.1 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 13.1 | 17.5 | 11.5 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 45.2 | 48.5 | 46 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | — | 423.8 | 220 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | — | 81.9 | 28 |
| Width (ft) | — | — | 33 |