Leonardo Aw109 Grand New vs Md Helicopters Md 530f
The Leonardo AW109 Grand New and the MD Helicopters MD 530F sit in different helicopter categories with different missions in mind. The AW109 Grand New is a light twin‑engine, IFR-capable, multi‑role helicopter commonly configured for corporate transport, EMS, and utility work. By contrast, the MD 530F is a light single‑engine helicopter optimized for simplicity, agility, and lower operating complexity, often used for training, utility, observation, and some law‑enforcement or light mission profiles. On range, the AW109 Grand New typically offers a longer practical cruise range than the MD 530F, helped by twin‑engine power and common long-range cabin/mission configurations; the MD 530F’s range is generally more modest and more sensitive to payload and fuel tradeoffs typical of small single‑engine helicopters. On passenger capacity, the AW109 Grand New usually carries a pilot plus about six to seven passengers depending on interior and mission equipment, while the MD 530F is typically configured for a pilot plus about four passengers, with capacity varying by equipment and weight limits.
| Spec | AGUSTA / LEONARDO AW109 Grand New | MD Helicopters MD 530F |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 7.31 | $ 3.59 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 8 | 4 |
| Flight Rules | VFR | VFR |
| Manufacturer | Leonardo | MD Helicotpers |
| Aircraft Name | AW109 Grand New | MD 530F |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 464 | 216 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.91 | $ 0.90 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 6 | 3 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified | Un-Verified |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 6 | 2 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 1,140 | $ 480 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | EFIS | Garmin G500H |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 156 | 134 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $ 7,800,000 | $ 3,400,000 |
| Useful Load (lbs) | — | 1509 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 8 | 4 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 6 | 3 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 6 | 2 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | No |
| Model | PW207C | 250-C30 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 2000 |
| Horsepower | 735 | 650 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 1 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 152 | 64 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | — | 35 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 42.5 | 32.2 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 11.5 | 8.7 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 35.5 | 27.5 |