Bell 407gxi vs Md Helicopters Md 530f
The Bell 407GXi and the MD Helicopters MD 530F are both light single-engine turbine helicopters, but they target somewhat different missions. The Bell 407GXi is commonly positioned as a light utility/corporate aircraft with strong emphasis on passenger transport, EMS, and general-purpose operations, while the MD 530F is often associated with light utility and high-performance “hot-and-high” work, and is also widely used in training and specialized roles. In range, the Bell 407GXi typically offers a longer usable range than the MD 530F in standard configurations, making it generally better suited to longer point-to-point legs or missions where fewer fuel stops are desired. The MD 530F’s range is usually more modest, though it can be mission-dependent with optional equipment and fuel arrangements. For passenger capacity, the Bell 407GXi generally carries more people, commonly configured for one pilot plus up to six passengers, whereas the MD 530F is typically configured for one pilot plus up to four passengers, reflecting its smaller cabin and lighter overall footprint.
| Spec | Bell 407GXi | MD Helicopters MD 530F |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 4.43 | $ 3.59 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 4 |
| Flight Rules | VFR | VFR |
| Manufacturer | Bell | MD Helicotpers |
| Aircraft Name | 407GXi | MD 530F |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 337 | 216 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.74 | $ 0.90 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 5 | 3 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 2300 | 1509 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 5 | 2 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 589 | $ 480 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G1000H NXI | Garmin G500H |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 133 | 134 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $3,225,000 | $ 3,400,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 4 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 5 | 3 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 5 | 2 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | No |
| Model | M250-C47E/4 | 250-C30 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 3500 | 2000 |
| Horsepower | 862 | 650 |
| No. of Engines | 1 | 1 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | 46 | 35 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 127.8 | 64 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Width (ft) | 25.4 | — |
| Length (ft) | 41.4 | 32.2 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 5 | — |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 3.9 | — |
| Overall Height (ft) | 10.2 | 8.7 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 35 | 27.5 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 125 | — |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 16 | — |