Bell 429wlg Globalranger vs Leonardo Aw109 Grand New vs Md Helicopters Md 902 Exlplorer
The Bell 429WLG GlobalRanger is best characterized as a modern light twin optimized for utility, EMS, and corporate missions, offering a roomy cabin and typically seating around seven to eight occupants depending on layout. Its range is generally in the mid-to-upper light-twin class, commonly cited around the 350–400 nautical mile neighborhood with reserves, making it a balanced choice for regional point-to-point work. The Leonardo AW109 Grand New is a faster, more executive-oriented light twin, often configured for six to eight passengers plus crew in premium interiors. It tends to emphasize speed and long-legged capability; published range is commonly around 500 nautical miles or more depending on fuel and configuration, making it strong for longer regional legs. The MD Helicopters MD 902 Explorer is a light twin aimed at high-utilization roles such as law enforcement, EMS, and patrol. It typically carries about seven to eight people in standard seating. Its range is usually shorter than the AW109 and often comparable to or below the Bell 429, commonly around 300–400 nautical miles depending on fit and reserves.
| Spec | Bell 429WLG GlobalRanger | AGUSTA / LEONARDO AW109 Grand New | MD Helicopters MD 902 Exlplorer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summary | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 6.05 | $ 7.31 | $ 7.54 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | VFR | VFR |
| Manufacturer | Bell | Leonardo | MD Helicotpers |
| Aircraft Name | 429WLG GlobalRanger | AW109 Grand New | MD 902 Exlplorer |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 381 | 464 | 317 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.76 | $ 0.91 | $ 0.94 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | Un-Verified | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 2528 | — | 3125 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 931 | $ 1,140 | $ 988 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Bell BasiX-Pro | EFIS | Garmin G500H |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 154 | 156 | 131 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $7,700,000 | $ 7,800,000 | $7,250,000 |
| Cabin | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Engine | |||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes | No |
| Model | PW207D1 | PW207C | PW207E |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 4000 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 1100 | 735 | 710 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | 76 | — | 65 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 216.9 | 152 | 159 |
| Dimensions | |||
| Width (ft) | 26.37 | — | — |
| Length (ft) | 43 | 42.5 | 40.6 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 5 | — | — |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 4 | — | — |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 6.58 | — | — |
| Overall Height (ft) | 12.39 | 11.5 | 12 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 36 | 35.5 | 33.9 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 130 | — | — |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 74 | — | — |