Bell 429wlg Globalranger vs Enstrom Helicotper 480b G vs Leonardo Aw109 Grand New vs Md Helicopters Md 600n vs Robinson Helicopters R66
The Bell 429WLG GlobalRanger and Leonardo AW109 GrandNew sit in the light twin category, offering the highest redundancy and typically the most capable IFR-oriented mission profiles in this group. In range, both generally lead the set, with the AW109 often viewed as the faster, longer-legged option depending on fit and reserves, while the 429 emphasizes a spacious cabin and practical utility. Passenger capacity is also strongest in these twins, commonly accommodating about six to seven occupants including the pilot(s), with interiors configurable for passengers or EMS. The Enstrom 480B-G, MD Helicopters MD 600N, and Robinson R66 are single-engine helicopters, usually positioned for lower operating cost and simpler support compared with twins. Their ranges are broadly comparable and generally shorter than the light twins, varying with fuel, payload, and mission reserves. In passenger capacity, the R66 is typically a five-seat aircraft, while the 480B-G and 600N commonly carry around five to six occupants depending on configuration and weight limits.
| Spec | Bell 429WLG GlobalRanger | AGUSTA / LEONARDO AW109 Grand New | MD Helicopters MD 600N | ROBINSON R66 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 6.05 | $ 7.31 | $ 4.06 | $ 3.49 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 8 | 8 | 6 | 5 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | VFR | VFR | VFR |
| Manufacturer | Bell | Leonardo | MD Helicotpers | Robinson Helicopters |
| Aircraft Name | 429WLG GlobalRanger | AW109 Grand New | MD 600N | R66 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 381 | 464 | 341 | 350 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.76 | $ 0.91 | $ 0.68 | $ 0.70 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 6 | 6 | 5 | — |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | Un-Verified | Un-Verified | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 2528 | — | 2000 | 1355 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 6 | 6 | 5 | 3 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 931 | $ 1,140 | $ 545 | $ 384 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Bell BasiX-Pro | EFIS | Gyro / Analog | Gyro / Analog |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 154 | 156 | 134 | 110 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $7,700,000 | $ 7,800,000 | $3,400,000 | $ 920,000 |
| Cabin | ||||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 8 | 8 | 6 | 5 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 6 | 6 | 5 | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 6 | 6 | 5 | 3 |
| Engine | ||||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Model | PW207D1 | PW207C | 250-C47 | RR300 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 4000 | 2000 | 2000 |
| Horsepower | 1100 | 735 | 715 | 300 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | 76 | — | 41 | — |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 216.9 | 152 | 118 | 73.6 |
| Dimensions | ||||
| Width (ft) | 26.37 | — | — | — |
| Length (ft) | 43 | 42.5 | 36.9 | 38.3 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 5 | — | — | — |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 4 | — | — | — |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 6.58 | — | — | — |
| Overall Height (ft) | 12.39 | 11.5 | 9.7 | 11.4 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 36 | 35.5 | 27.5 | 33 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 130 | — | — | 50 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 74 | — | — | 18 |