Bell 407gxi vs Bell 505 Jetranger X vs Robinson Helicopters R66
The Bell 407GXi sits in the light single-engine turbine category and is generally the most capable of the three for carrying people and covering distance. In typical configurations it accommodates up to about six occupants including the pilot, and it offers the longest practical range, making it better suited to missions that prioritize speed, payload, and cross-country legs. The Bell 505 JetRanger X is also a light single-engine turbine, positioned as a smaller, simpler aircraft than the 407GXi. It commonly carries about five occupants including the pilot and delivers a moderate range, fitting well for training, patrol, and short-to-medium utility work where operating costs and ease of use are key. The Robinson R66 is a light single-engine turbine helicopter as well, usually configured for up to five occupants including the pilot. Its range is generally competitive with the 505 and can be strong depending on fuel fit and loading, but overall it tends to land between the 505 and the 407GXi in capability while emphasizing straightforward operations and value.
| Spec | Bell 407GXi | Bell 505 JetRanger X | ROBINSON R66 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summary | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 4.43 | $ 3.53 | $ 3.49 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 5 | 5 |
| Flight Rules | VFR | VFR | VFR |
| Manufacturer | Bell | Bell | Robinson Helicopters |
| Aircraft Name | 407GXi | 505 JetRanger X | R66 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 337 | 306 | 350 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.74 | $ 0.71 | $ 0.70 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 5 | — | — |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | VERIFIED | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 2300 | 1500 | 1355 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 5 | 3 | 3 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 589 | $ 441 | $ 384 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G1000H NXI | Garmin G1000H | Gyro / Analog |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 133 | 125 | 110 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $3,225,000 | $1,445,000 | $ 920,000 |
| Cabin | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 5 | 5 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 5 | — | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 5 | 3 | 3 |
| Engine | |||
| FADEC | Yes | Dual-Channel | No |
| Model | M250-C47E/4 | Arrius 2R | RR300 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 3500 | 4000 | 2000 |
| Horsepower | 862 | 505 | 300 |
| No. of Engines | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | 46 | 32.3 | — |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 127.8 | 84.85 | 73.6 |
| Dimensions | |||
| Width (ft) | 25.4 | 6.51 | — |
| Length (ft) | 41.4 | 42.48 | 38.3 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 5 | 4.66 | — |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 3.9 | 2.75 | — |
| Overall Height (ft) | 10.2 | 10.65 | 11.4 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 35 | 37 | 33 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 125 | 137 | 50 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 16 | 18 | 18 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | — | 7.17 | — |