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Daher Tbm 960 vs Leonardo Aw189 vs Md Helicopters (mcdonnell Douglas) 902 Explorer vs Robinson R66

The Daher TBM 960 is a single‑engine turboprop airplane, optimized for fast point‑to‑point travel. It typically offers the longest range of the four—roughly on the order of 1,500+ nautical miles—while carrying about 4 to 6 passengers in a pressurized cabin (plus pilot), making it best suited to longer intercity missions. The Leonardo AW189 is a super‑medium twin‑engine helicopter designed for offshore, SAR, and utility transport. It trades speed and range for vertical access, with a typical range around the mid‑400 nm class (higher with auxiliary tanks) and a much larger cabin, commonly seating around 12 to 16 passengers depending on configuration. The MD Helicopters 902 Explorer is a light twin helicopter, generally shorter‑ranged than the AW189 (often a few hundred nautical miles) and usually configured for about 6 to 8 passengers, favoring patrol, EMS, and corporate shuttle roles. The Robinson R66 is a light single‑engine turbine helicopter with the smallest capacity, typically 4 passengers plus pilot, and a range commonly around 300 nm, aimed at cost‑effective short regional trips and utility work.

SpecDaher TBM 960AGUSTA / LEONARDO AW189
Summary
Cockpit22
DOC / nm$ 2.25$ 15.57
Min Crew11
Total Seats621
Flight RulesIFRIFR
ManufacturerDaher TBMLeonardo
Aircraft NameTBM 960AW189
Aircraft TypeTurbo Prop
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)1730651
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.56$ 0.74
OEM VerificationUn-VerifiedUn-Verified
Useful Load (lbs)2908
Standard Cabin Seats419
Direct Operating Cost$ 744$ 2,413
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Garmin G3000EFIS
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)330155
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$4,450,000$2,413,000
Max Cabin Seats19
Cabin
Cockpit22
LavatoryNo
Min Crew11
Total Seats621
Galley LocationMID
Cabin Pressure (psi)6.2
Standard Cabin Seats419
SL Cabin Altitude (ft)14390
Max Cabin Seats19
Engine
FADECYesYes
ModelTBM 960CT7-2E1
TBO (hrs)35004000
Horsepower8501983
Flat RatingISA + 49
Fuel TypeJetFuel
No. of Engines2
Dimensions
Length (ft)35.357.8
Wingspan (ft)42.1
Cabin Width (ft)4
Cabin Height (ft)4.1
Cabin Length (ft)13.4
Cabin Volume (cu. ft)123395
Overall Height (ft)16.6
Rotor Diameter (ft)48
Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft)85