AIR.ONE

Bell 429 Globalranger vs Leonardo Aw119kx vs Md Helicopters Md 902 Exlplorer

The Bell 429 GlobalRanger, Leonardo AW119Kx, and MD Helicopters MD 902 Explorer all sit in the light-twin or light-single utility segment but target slightly different missions. The Bell 429 is a light twin-engine, IFR-capable, multi-mission helicopter commonly used for EMS, law enforcement, and corporate transport; among the three it generally offers the longest practical range, with typical figures around the mid-300 nautical mile class depending on fit and reserves. The Leonardo AW119Kx is a light single-engine helicopter optimized for performance, simplicity, and operating cost; its range is typically somewhat shorter than the Bell 429 but often comparable to other light singles, commonly around the low-to-mid-300 nautical mile class. The MD 902 Explorer is a light twin with the NOTAR anti-torque system, valued for low external noise and safety margins; its range is usually in the roughly 250–350 nautical mile class depending on configuration. For passenger capacity, the Bell 429 is typically configured for 6–7 passengers plus crew, the AW119Kx commonly carries about 6–7 passengers plus crew, and the MD 902 is often arranged for about 5–7 passengers plus crew, with all varying by interior and mission equipment.

SpecBell 429 GlobalRangerAGUSTA / LEONARDO AW119KxMD Helicopters MD 902 Exlplorer
Summary
Cockpit222
DOC / nm$ 6.29$ 6.76$ 7.54
Min Crew111
Total Seats888
Flight RulesIFRVFRVFR
ManufacturerBellLeonardoMD Helicotpers
Aircraft Name429 GlobalRangerAW119KxMD 902 Exlplorer
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)365515317
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.79$ 0.84$ 0.94
Max Cabin Seats666
OEM VerificationVERIFIEDUn-VerifiedUn-Verified
Useful Load (lbs)25353125
Standard Cabin Seats666
Direct Operating Cost$ 931$ 885$ 988
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Bell BasiX-ProGarmin G1000HGarmin G500H
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)148131131
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$7,500,000 $3,850,000 $7,250,000
Cabin
Cockpit222
Min Crew111
Total Seats888
Max Cabin Seats666
Standard Cabin Seats666
Engine
FADECYesYesNo
ModelPW207D1PT6B-37APW207E
Fuel TypeJetFuelJetFuelJetFuel
TBO (hrs)400045004000
Horsepower1100917710
No. of Engines212
Fuel Burn (gph)7665
Fuel Capacity (gal)216.9160159
Dimensions
Width (ft)26.37
Length (ft)4342.540.6
Cabin Width (ft)5
Cabin Height (ft)4
Cabin Length (ft)6.58
Overall Height (ft)13.2511.912
Rotor Diameter (ft)3635.533.9
Cabin Volume (cu. ft)130
Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft)74