Bell 407gxi vs Bell 429 Globalranger
The Bell 407GXi and Bell 429 GlobalRanger sit in different helicopter categories and are typically chosen for different mission profiles. The 407GXi is a single‑engine light utility helicopter, often favored for roles like training, patrol, light EMS support, and general utility where simplicity, lower operating cost, and strong hot‑and‑high performance matter. The 429 is a twin‑engine light twin helicopter aimed at higher-dispatch, higher-margin missions such as EMS, offshore support, and corporate transport where redundancy and higher systems capability are priorities. In range, the 429 generally offers a longer practical reach than the 407GXi, especially when configured for typical mission equipment and reserves, though exact range depends heavily on fuel fit, payload, and speed profile. In passenger capacity, the 407GXi commonly carries one pilot plus up to five passengers in a standard layout, while the 429 typically supports one or two pilots with seating for up to six or seven passengers depending on configuration, and it usually provides more cabin volume and flexibility for medical interiors.
| Spec | Bell 407GXi | Bell 429 GlobalRanger |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 4.43 | $ 6.29 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 8 |
| Flight Rules | VFR | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Bell | Bell |
| Aircraft Name | 407GXi | 429 GlobalRanger |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 337 | 365 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.74 | $ 0.79 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 5 | 6 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 2300 | 2535 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 5 | 6 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 589 | $ 931 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G1000H NXI | Bell BasiX-Pro |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 133 | 148 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $3,225,000 | $7,500,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 8 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 5 | 6 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 5 | 6 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | M250-C47E/4 | PW207D1 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 3500 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 862 | 1100 |
| No. of Engines | 1 | 2 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | 46 | 76 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 127.8 | 216.9 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Width (ft) | 25.4 | 26.37 |
| Length (ft) | 41.4 | 43 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 5 | 5 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 3.9 | 4 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 10.2 | 13.25 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 35 | 36 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 125 | 130 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 16 | 74 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | — | 6.58 |