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Leonardo Aw109 Grand New vs Robinson Helicopters R44 Raven Ii

The Leonardo AW109 Grand New and the Robinson R44 Raven II sit in different helicopter categories. The AW109 Grand New is a light twin‑engine helicopter aimed at corporate, VIP, and higher‑utilization commercial missions, emphasizing redundancy, higher cruise speed, and greater payload flexibility. The R44 Raven II is a light single‑engine piston helicopter typically used for private flying, training, and light utility work, with simpler systems and lower operating costs. In range, the AW109 Grand New generally offers longer legs and higher cruise performance, with typical mission ranges on the order of roughly 500–600 nautical miles depending on configuration and reserves. The R44 Raven II’s practical range is usually shorter, commonly around 300–350 nautical miles, again depending on fuel, payload, and conditions. Passenger capacity also differs. The AW109 Grand New is commonly configured for one or two pilots plus about six to seven passengers (layouts vary by interior and mission). The R44 Raven II typically carries one pilot plus up to three passengers, with four seats total.

SpecAGUSTA / LEONARDO AW109 Grand NewROBINSON R44 Raven II
Summary
Cockpit2
DOC / nm$ 7.31$ 2.36
Min Crew1
Total Seats84
Flight RulesVFRVFR
ManufacturerLeonardoRobinson Helicopters
Aircraft NameAW109 Grand NewR44 Raven II
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)464300
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.91$ 0.59
Max Cabin Seats6
OEM VerificationUn-VerifiedUn-Verified
Standard Cabin Seats6
Direct Operating Cost$ 1,140$ 257
Flight Deck (Base Spec)EFISGyro / Analog
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)156109
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$ 7,800,000$ 490,000
Useful Load (lbs)995
Cabin
Cockpit2
Min Crew1
Total Seats84
Max Cabin Seats6
Standard Cabin Seats6
Engine
FADECYesNo
ModelPW207CIO-540
Fuel TypeJetFuelAvGas
TBO (hrs)40002200
Horsepower735245
No. of Engines21
Fuel Capacity (gal)15229.5
TBO (yrs)12
Fuel DeliveryFuel Injected
Dimensions
Length (ft)42.538.3
Overall Height (ft)11.510.8
Rotor Diameter (ft)35.533
Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft)2.5