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.
| Spec | Bell 429WLG GlobalRanger | MD Helicopters MD 902 Exlplorer |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 6.05 | $ 7.54 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 8 | 8 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | VFR |
| Manufacturer | Bell | MD Helicotpers |
| Aircraft Name | 429WLG GlobalRanger | MD 902 Exlplorer |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 381 | 317 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.76 | $ 0.94 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 6 | 6 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 2528 | 3125 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 6 | 6 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 931 | $ 988 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Bell BasiX-Pro | Garmin G500H |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 154 | 131 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $7,700,000 | $7,250,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 8 | 8 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 6 | 6 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 6 | 6 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | No |
| Model | PW207D1 | PW207E |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 1100 | 710 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | 76 | 65 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 216.9 | 159 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Width (ft) | 26.37 | — |
| Length (ft) | 43 | 40.6 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 5 | — |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 4 | — |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 6.58 | — |
| Overall Height (ft) | 12.39 | 12 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 36 | 33.9 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 130 | — |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 74 | — |