Bell 412epi vs Bell 429 Globalranger
The Bell 412EPi and Bell 429 GlobalRanger are both twin‑engine utility helicopters, but they sit in different size and mission classes. The 412EPi is a medium twin derived from the long‑running 412/205 lineage and is typically chosen for heavier lifting, austere operations, and multi‑role utility work. The 429 is a lighter, modern light twin aimed more at corporate/VIP transport, EMS, and public‑service missions where speed, cabin refinement, and advanced avionics are priorities. In range terms, the 412EPi generally offers a longer practical mission radius than the 429 in typical configurations, especially when configured for utility loads, while the 429’s range is competitive for the light‑twin segment but tends to be lower than the 412EPi’s. For passenger capacity, the 412EPi normally carries more people, commonly seating around 10–13 occupants depending on configuration, whereas the 429 is typically arranged for about 6–8 passengers (plus crew), again depending on interior and mission equipment.
| Spec | Bell 412EPi | Bell 429 GlobalRanger |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 12.09 | $ 6.29 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 14 | 8 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Bell | Bell |
| Aircraft Name | 412EPi | 429 GlobalRanger |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 361 | 365 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.86 | $ 0.79 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 13 | 6 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 4829 | 2535 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 13 | 6 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 1,487 | $ 931 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Bell BasiX-Pro | Bell BasiX-Pro |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 123 | 148 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $ 12,500,000 | $7,500,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 14 | 8 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 13 | 6 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 13 | 6 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | PT6T-9 | PW207D1 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 1370 | 1100 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | 113 | 76 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 330.5 | 216.9 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Width (ft) | 33 | 26.37 |
| Length (ft) | 52.1 | 43 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 11.5 | 13.25 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 46 | 36 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 220 | 130 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 28 | 74 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | — | 5 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | — | 4 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | — | 6.58 |