Airbus Helicopters H175 vs Bell 429 Globalranger vs Leonardo Aw139.
The Airbus Helicopters H175 and the Bell 429 GlobalRanger sit in different class bands, so the comparison is mainly one of medium versus light twin performance. The H175 is a medium, twin‑engine helicopter typically used for offshore transport, search and rescue, and higher‑payload utility missions. It generally offers longer reach and more cabin volume, with typical ranges around 600–700 nautical miles depending on configuration, reserves, and payload. Passenger capacity is commonly arranged for about 16 in an offshore-style cabin (with variations by operator fit). The Bell 429 is a light, twin‑engine helicopter aimed at EMS, law enforcement, corporate transport, and general utility roles. It usually has shorter legs than the H175, with typical ranges roughly in the 380–410 nautical mile class, again varying by equipment and loading. Passenger capacity is smaller, commonly configured for 6–7 passengers in addition to crew, or adapted for medical interiors. In short, the H175 is the larger, longer-range people mover, while the 429 prioritizes lighter-category efficiency and flexibility.
| Spec | AIRBUS H175 | Bell 429 GlobalRanger |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 13.53 | $ 6.29 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 18 | 8 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Airbus Helicopters | Bell |
| Aircraft Name | H175 | 429 GlobalRanger |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 573 | 365 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.75 | $ 0.79 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 18 | 6 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 6797 | 2535 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 16 | 6 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 2,016 | $ 931 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | EFIS | Bell BasiX-Pro |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 149 | 148 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $17,900,000 | $7,500,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 18 | 8 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 18 | 6 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 16 | 6 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | PT6A-67E | PW207D1 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 3500 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 1775 | 1100 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | — | 76 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | — | 216.9 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 59.2 | 43 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 17.5 | 13.25 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 48.5 | 36 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 423.8 | 130 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 81.9 | 74 |
| Width (ft) | — | 26.37 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | — | 5 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | — | 4 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | — | 6.58 |