Bell 407gxi vs Bell 505 Jetranger X
The Bell 407GXi and Bell 505 Jet Ranger X are both light single‑engine helicopters, but they sit in different capability tiers. In category terms, the 407GXi is the larger, higher‑performance light single, typically chosen for missions that benefit from more payload and better high‑and‑hot margins, while the 505 is a lighter, simpler platform often favored for training, sightseeing, and cost‑conscious utility work. For range, the 407GXi generally offers a longer practical reach than the 505, making it better suited to longer legs or missions with fewer fuel stops, although exact range varies with configuration, reserves, and payload. In passenger capacity, the 407GXi typically carries more people, commonly configured for one pilot plus up to six passengers, whereas the 505 is usually arranged for one pilot plus up to four passengers. Overall, the 407GXi tends to prioritize capacity and mission flexibility, while the 505 emphasizes approachable handling, lower operating costs, and straightforward day‑to‑day use.
| Spec | Bell 407GXi | Bell 505 JetRanger X |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 4.43 | $ 3.53 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 5 |
| Flight Rules | VFR | VFR |
| Manufacturer | Bell | Bell |
| Aircraft Name | 407GXi | 505 JetRanger X |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 337 | 306 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.74 | $ 0.71 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 5 | — |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 2300 | 1500 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 5 | 3 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 589 | $ 441 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G1000H NXI | Garmin G1000H |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 133 | 125 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $3,225,000 | $1,445,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 5 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 5 | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 5 | 3 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Dual-Channel |
| Model | M250-C47E/4 | Arrius 2R |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 3500 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 862 | 505 |
| No. of Engines | 1 | 1 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | 46 | 32.3 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 127.8 | 84.85 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Width (ft) | 25.4 | 6.51 |
| Length (ft) | 41.4 | 42.48 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 5 | 4.66 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 3.9 | 2.75 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 10.2 | 10.65 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 35 | 37 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 125 | 137 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 16 | 18 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | — | 7.17 |