Beechcraft King Air 360 Er vs Enstrom 480b vs Leonardo Aw189
The Beechcraft King Air 360ER is a fixed‑wing twin‑turboprop airplane optimized for efficient point‑to‑point travel; it offers the longest range of the three and is typically configured for about 6–9 passengers, depending on interior and mission fit. The Enstrom 480B is a light single‑engine helicopter aimed at short‑range utility, training, and personal/working transport; it carries the fewest passengers—generally up to 4 plus a pilot—and has the shortest range, making it best for local missions and frequent landings in tight areas. The Agusta/Leonardo AW189 is a large twin‑engine helicopter designed for offshore transport, search and rescue, and high‑payload utility work; its range is generally shorter than the King Air’s but longer than the Enstrom’s, and its passenger capacity is much higher, commonly in the mid‑teens to around 18 depending on layout and regulatory seating. In practical terms, the King Air wins on range and cruise efficiency, the AW189 wins on lift and helicopter cabin capacity, and the 480B fits the simplest, shortest‑hop helicopter roles.
| Spec | AGUSTA / LEONARDO AW189 |
|---|---|
| Summary | |
| Cockpit | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 15.57 |
| Min Crew | 1 |
| Total Seats | 21 |
| Flight Rules | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Leonardo |
| Aircraft Name | AW189 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 651 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.74 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 19 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 19 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 2,413 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | EFIS |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 155 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $2,413,000 |
| Cabin | |
| Cockpit | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 |
| Total Seats | 21 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 19 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 19 |
| Engine | |
| FADEC | Yes |
| Model | CT7-2E1 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 1983 |
| No. of Engines | 2 |
| Dimensions | |
| Length (ft) | 57.8 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 16.6 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 48 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 395 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 85 |