AIR.ONE

Bell 412epi vs Bell 429wlg Globalranger vs Leonardo Aw169 vs Md Helicopters Md 902 Exlplorer

In category, the Bell 412EPi and Leonardo AW169 are medium twin‑engine utility helicopters, typically chosen for SAR, EMS, and offshore or public‑service missions where lift and cabin volume matter. The Bell 429WLG GlobalRanger and MD Helicopters MD 902 Explorer sit closer to the light twin‑engine segment, emphasizing speed, agility, and lower operating footprint, with the 902 also notable for its NOTAR anti‑torque system. For range, the AW169 and Bell 412EPi generally offer the strongest mission radius in typical configurations, with the 412EPi often favored when carrying heavier loads over practical distances and the AW169 offering efficient cross‑country performance. The Bell 429WLG usually provides solid medium range for its class, while the MD 902 tends to be comparable or slightly shorter depending on fit and reserves. For passenger capacity, the Bell 412EPi typically carries the most, commonly accommodating around 13–14 passengers. The AW169 follows with roughly 8–10 seats depending on layout. The Bell 429WLG is commonly configured for about 6–8 passengers. The MD 902 Explorer is usually in the 6–8 passenger range as well, with configurations varying by mission equipment.

SpecBell 412EPiBell 429WLG GlobalRangerAGUSTA / LEONARDO AW169MD Helicopters MD 902 Exlplorer
Summary
Cockpit2222
DOC / nm$ 12.09$ 6.05$ 11.84$ 7.54
Min Crew1111
Total Seats148128
Flight RulesIFRIFRIFRVFR
ManufacturerBellBellLeonardoMD Helicotpers
Aircraft Name412EPi429WLG GlobalRangerAW169MD 902 Exlplorer
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASAFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)361381440317
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.86$ 0.76$ 0.99$ 0.94
Max Cabin Seats136106
OEM VerificationVERIFIEDVERIFIEDUn-VerifiedUn-Verified
Useful Load (lbs)482925283125
Standard Cabin Seats136106
Direct Operating Cost$ 1,487$ 931$ 1,658$ 988
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Bell BasiX-ProBell BasiX-ProEFISGarmin G500H
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)123154140131
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$ 12,500,000$7,700,000 $9,450,000 $7,250,000
Cabin
Cockpit2222
Min Crew1111
Total Seats148128
Max Cabin Seats136106
Standard Cabin Seats136106
Engine
FADECYesYesYesNo
ModelPT6T-9PW207D1PW210APW207E
Fuel TypeJetFuelJetFuelJetFuelJetFuel
TBO (hrs)4000400040004000
Horsepower137011001000710
No. of Engines2222
Fuel Burn (gph)1137665
Fuel Capacity (gal)330.5216.9159
Dimensions
Width (ft)3326.37
Length (ft)52.14348.140.6
Overall Height (ft)11.512.3914.812
Rotor Diameter (ft)463633.9
Cabin Volume (cu. ft)220130222.5
Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft)287449.5
Cabin Width (ft)5
Cabin Height (ft)4
Cabin Length (ft)6.58