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Bell 429wlg Globalranger vs Md Helicopters Md 902 Exlplorer

Both the Bell 429WLG GlobalRanger and the MD Helicopters MD 902 Explorer are light twin‑engine helicopters often used for EMS, law enforcement, utility, and corporate transport, but they differ in cabin philosophy and typical mission fit. The Bell 429 is generally positioned as a higher‑performance, more modern light twin with a spacious, flat‑floor cabin that tends to suit mixed passenger and mission‑equipment layouts. The MD 902 is also a light twin, but is distinctive for its NOTAR anti‑torque system, which can be attractive for operations where reduced tail‑rotor hazards and lower perceived noise are priorities. In range, the Bell 429 typically offers a longer practical reach than the MD 902 in many configurations, though real‑world distance depends heavily on fuel options, payload, reserve requirements, and mission equipment. For passenger capacity, both can be configured for roughly similar headcounts in executive or transport roles, often accommodating around six to seven passengers depending on interior and weight limits, but the Bell 429’s cabin volume often provides more flexibility for seating plus gear.

SpecBell 429WLG GlobalRangerMD Helicopters MD 902 Exlplorer
Summary
Cockpit22
DOC / nm$ 6.05$ 7.54
Min Crew11
Total Seats88
Flight RulesIFRVFR
ManufacturerBellMD Helicotpers
Aircraft Name429WLG GlobalRangerMD 902 Exlplorer
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)381317
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.76$ 0.94
Max Cabin Seats66
OEM VerificationVERIFIEDUn-Verified
Useful Load (lbs)25283125
Standard Cabin Seats66
Direct Operating Cost$ 931$ 988
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Bell BasiX-ProGarmin G500H
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)154131
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$7,700,000 $7,250,000
Cabin
Cockpit22
Min Crew11
Total Seats88
Max Cabin Seats66
Standard Cabin Seats66
Engine
FADECYesNo
ModelPW207D1PW207E
Fuel TypeJetFuelJetFuel
TBO (hrs)40004000
Horsepower1100710
No. of Engines22
Fuel Burn (gph)7665
Fuel Capacity (gal)216.9159
Dimensions
Width (ft)26.37
Length (ft)4340.6
Cabin Width (ft)5
Cabin Height (ft)4
Cabin Length (ft)6.58
Overall Height (ft)12.3912
Rotor Diameter (ft)3633.9
Cabin Volume (cu. ft)130
Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft)74