Airbus Helicopters H225 vs Enstrom 480b vs Md Helicopters (mcdonnell Douglas) 902 Explorer
The Airbus H225 is a heavy, twin‑engine helicopter designed for offshore transport, SAR, and utility missions; it offers the greatest range in typical operations and the highest passenger capacity of the three, commonly configured around 19 passengers (with layouts varying by mission). The Enstrom 480B is a light, single‑engine utility helicopter aimed at training, patrol, and personal/corporate use; it has the shortest range here and the smallest cabin, typically seating 4 to 5 occupants including the pilot. The MD Helicopters 902 Explorer is a light, twin‑engine helicopter optimized for public safety, EMS support, and executive transport; it generally sits between the other two in range and capacity, commonly carrying about 7 to 8 occupants depending on interior and equipment. Overall, the H225 prioritizes lift, cabin volume, and longer legs; the 480B prioritizes simplicity and lower operating scale; and the 902 balances twin‑engine redundancy with compact size and moderate passenger capability.
| Spec | AIRBUS H225 |
|---|---|
| Summary | |
| Cockpit | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 20.87 |
| Min Crew | 2 |
| Total Seats | 21 |
| Flight Rules | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Airbus Helicopters |
| Aircraft Name | H225 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 454 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.99 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 28 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 11929 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 19 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 2,963 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | EFIS |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 142 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $ 29,500,000 |
| Cabin | |
| Cockpit | 2 |
| Min Crew | 2 |
| Total Seats | 21 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 28 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 19 |
| Engine | |
| FADEC | Yes |
| Model | Makila 2A1 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 3500 |
| Horsepower | 2100 |
| No. of Engines | 2 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 684 |
| Dimensions | |
| Length (ft) | 63.4 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 16.3 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 53.2 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 547 |