Airbus Helicopters H225 vs Embraer Legacy 650 E vs Enstrom 480b vs Leonardo Aw189
The Airbus H225 and Leonardo AW189 are large twin‑engine helicopters aimed at offshore, SAR, and utility roles. Both typically carry around 16–19 passengers depending on configuration, with practical ranges commonly in the ~400–500 nautical mile class, though mission fit, payload, and reserves can shift that. The H225 is generally the heavier, higher‑capacity option, while the AW189 often targets a slightly smaller footprint with similar offshore reach. The Enstrom 480B is a light single‑engine helicopter used more for training, patrol, and personal/utility flying. Passenger capacity is much lower, typically up to 4–5 occupants, and range is substantially shorter than the large twins, generally a few hundred nautical miles. The Embraer Legacy 650E is a long‑range business jet in a different category entirely. It carries roughly 13 passengers in typical executive layouts (more in high‑density arrangements) and offers intercity/intercontinental capability around 3,900 nautical miles, far exceeding the helicopters and the Enstrom in range and cruise speed.
| Spec | AIRBUS H225 | AGUSTA / LEONARDO AW189 |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 20.87 | $ 15.57 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 21 | 21 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Airbus Helicopters | Leonardo |
| Aircraft Name | H225 | AW189 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 454 | 651 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.99 | $ 0.74 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 28 | 19 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 11929 | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 19 | 19 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 2,963 | $ 2,413 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | EFIS | EFIS |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 142 | 155 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $ 29,500,000 | $2,413,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 21 | 21 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 28 | 19 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 19 | 19 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | Makila 2A1 | CT7-2E1 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 3500 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 2100 | 1983 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 684 | — |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 63.4 | 57.8 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 16.3 | 16.6 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 53.2 | 48 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 547 | 395 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | — | 85 |