Bell 429 Globalranger vs Subaru Bell 412epx
The Bell 429 GlobalRanger and the Bell 412EPX sit in different helicopter classes and are typically chosen for different mission profiles. The Bell 429 is a light, twin‑engine helicopter optimized for speed, efficient short-to-medium missions, and a modern cabin suited to EMS, law enforcement, and corporate transport. The Bell 412EPX is a larger, medium twin‑engine utility helicopter aimed at heavier-lift, more rugged multi-role work such as offshore support, search and rescue, firefighting support, and military or government operations. In range terms, the Bell 429 generally offers a solid light‑twin mission radius, but the 412EPX typically achieves longer practical endurance and range thanks to greater fuel capacity and a design oriented toward extended utility operations, though exact figures vary by configuration and reserves. For passenger capacity, the Bell 429 commonly carries around seven passengers (plus crew) in a typical transport layout, while the Bell 412EPX is usually configured for a larger cabin load, often up to roughly 10–13 passengers depending on interior and mission equipment.
| Spec | Bell 429 GlobalRanger | Subaru Bell 412EPX |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 6.29 | $ 12.09 |
| Min Crew | 1 | — |
| Total Seats | 8 | 15 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Bell | Subaru Bell |
| Aircraft Name | 429 GlobalRanger | 412EPX |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | Certified |
| Max Range (nm) | 365 | 361 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.79 | $ 0.86 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 6 | 13 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 2535 | 5385 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 6 | 13 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 931 | $ 1,487 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Bell BasiX-Pro | Bell BasiX-Pro |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 148 | 123 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $7,500,000 | $ 12,875,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 8 | 15 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 6 | 13 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 6 | 13 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | PW207D1 | PT6T-9 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | Jet Fuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 1100 | 1370 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 113 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | 76 | — |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 216.9 | 330.5 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Width (ft) | 26.37 | 33 |
| Length (ft) | 43 | 52.1 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 5 | — |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 4 | — |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 6.58 | 220 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 13.25 | 11.5 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 36 | 46 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 130 | — |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 74 | 28 |