Bell 429 Globalranger vs Leonardo Aw119kx
The Bell 429 GlobalRanger and Leonardo AW119Kx sit in different helicopter categories and are often chosen for different mission profiles. The Bell 429 is a light twin‑engine helicopter, typically favored when operators want added redundancy for IFR-capable missions, public safety work, offshore or overwater flying, and passenger transport with higher perceived safety margins. The AW119Kx is a light single‑engine helicopter, commonly selected for lower operating costs, strong high/hot performance, training, utility work, and VIP transport where twin‑engine redundancy is not required. In range, the AW119Kx generally offers a longer typical range than the Bell 429, depending on configuration and reserves, making it attractive for longer point‑to‑point flights. The Bell 429’s range is solid for the light twin class but is often optimized around multi-mission equipment and cabin comfort rather than maximum endurance. For passenger capacity, the Bell 429 usually carries more people, with a larger cabin that commonly accommodates a pilot plus up to six or seven passengers depending on seating layout. The AW119Kx typically seats a pilot plus up to six passengers in standard arrangements.
| Spec | Bell 429 GlobalRanger | AGUSTA / LEONARDO AW119Kx |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 6.29 | $ 6.76 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 8 | 8 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | VFR |
| Manufacturer | Bell | Leonardo |
| Aircraft Name | 429 GlobalRanger | AW119Kx |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 365 | 515 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.79 | $ 0.84 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 6 | 6 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 2535 | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 6 | 6 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 931 | $ 885 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Bell BasiX-Pro | Garmin G1000H |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 148 | 131 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $7,500,000 | $3,850,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 8 | 8 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 6 | 6 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 6 | 6 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | PW207D1 | PT6B-37A |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 4500 |
| Horsepower | 1100 | 917 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 1 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | 76 | — |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 216.9 | 160 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Width (ft) | 26.37 | — |
| Length (ft) | 43 | 42.5 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 5 | — |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 4 | — |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 6.58 | — |
| Overall Height (ft) | 13.25 | 11.9 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 36 | 35.5 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 130 | — |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 74 | — |