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Airbus Helicopters H225 vs Embraer Legacy 650 E vs Leonardo Aw189

The Airbus H225 and Leonardo AW189 are twin‑engine helicopters, while the Embraer Legacy 650E is a long‑range business jet. For range, the Legacy 650E is in a different class: it is designed for intercontinental missions and typically offers roughly 3,900 nautical miles, depending on payload and conditions. The H225 and AW189 are medium/medium‑heavy helicopters optimized for offshore, SAR, and utility transport; their typical ranges are on the order of about 450–500 nautical miles, varying with fuel fit, cabin load, and reserves. Passenger capacity also differs by mission. The Legacy 650E commonly seats 13–14 passengers in executive configuration (with a larger maximum certified capacity), prioritizing comfort and cabin amenities. The H225 generally carries more people in transport roles, often around 16–19 passengers in typical offshore layouts, with higher maximums in high‑density seating. The AW189 usually sits slightly below the H225 in typical offshore passenger loads, commonly around 16–18, again with configuration‑dependent maximums. Overall, choose the Legacy 650E for speed and long range, and the H225 or AW189 for vertical lift and point‑to‑point access without runways.

SpecAIRBUS H225AGUSTA / LEONARDO AW189
Summary
Cockpit22
DOC / nm$ 20.87$ 15.57
Min Crew21
Total Seats2121
Flight RulesIFRIFR
ManufacturerAirbus HelicoptersLeonardo
Aircraft NameH225AW189
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)454651
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.99$ 0.74
Max Cabin Seats2819
OEM VerificationUn-VerifiedUn-Verified
Useful Load (lbs)11929
Standard Cabin Seats1919
Direct Operating Cost$ 2,963$ 2,413
Flight Deck (Base Spec)EFISEFIS
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)142155
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$ 29,500,000$2,413,000
Cabin
Cockpit22
Min Crew21
Total Seats2121
Max Cabin Seats2819
Standard Cabin Seats1919
Engine
FADECYesYes
ModelMakila 2A1CT7-2E1
Fuel TypeJetFuelJetFuel
TBO (hrs)35004000
Horsepower21001983
No. of Engines22
Fuel Capacity (gal)684
Dimensions
Length (ft)63.457.8
Overall Height (ft)16.316.6
Rotor Diameter (ft)53.248
Cabin Volume (cu. ft)547395
Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft)85