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Airbus Helicopters H225 vs Enstrom 480b vs Leonardo Aw189

The Airbus H225, Enstrom 480B, and Leonardo AW189 sit in very different helicopter categories. The H225 and AW189 are medium twin‑engine helicopters typically used for offshore transport, search and rescue, and utility missions, while the Enstrom 480B is a light single‑engine helicopter more suited to training, patrol, and short‑range utility work. On range, the Enstrom 480B generally offers the shortest reach, reflecting its lighter class and smaller fuel/load margins. The AW189 and H225 both provide long, mission‑oriented ranges appropriate for offshore legs; between them, the H225 is often chosen when operators want heavier-lift capability and strong endurance margins, while the AW189 is commonly positioned as a slightly smaller medium twin with efficient long‑range performance. Passenger capacity follows the same pattern. The Enstrom 480B typically carries around five people including the pilot. The AW189 usually supports roughly 16–19 passengers in high‑density configurations, while the larger H225 is commonly configured for about 19 passengers (and can be arranged for fewer with more space or equipment).

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