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Leonardo Aw119kx vs Md Helicopters Md 500e

The Leonardo AW119Kx and the MD Helicopters MD 500E are both light, single‑engine helicopters, but they sit in slightly different niches. The AW119Kx is generally positioned as a light utility and passenger transport helicopter with a larger cabin and a more “tour/EMS/corporate” oriented layout, while the MD 500E is typically considered a light scout/utility helicopter known for agility, compact size, and performance in roles like training, patrol, and specialized utility work. In range, the AW119Kx is commonly configured to fly farther than an MD 500E on standard fuel, reflecting its larger airframe and typical mission profiles that prioritize endurance and cabin comfort. The MD 500E’s range is usually more modest, though it can be optimized with mission-dependent fuel and payload choices. For passenger capacity, the AW119Kx typically carries more people, commonly accommodating a pilot plus around six passengers depending on configuration. The MD 500E generally carries fewer, often a pilot plus about four passengers, again depending on interior and mission equipment.

SpecAGUSTA / LEONARDO AW119KxMD Helicopters MD 500E
Summary
Cockpit22
DOC / nm$ 6.76$ 2.95
Min Crew11
Total Seats84
Flight RulesVFRVFR
ManufacturerLeonardoMD Helicotpers
Aircraft NameAW119KxMD 500E
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)515258
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.84$ 0.74
Max Cabin Seats63
OEM VerificationUn-VerifiedUn-Verified
Standard Cabin Seats62
Direct Operating Cost$ 885$ 398
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Garmin G1000HGyro / Analog
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)131135
Base Aircraft Price (USD) $3,850,000 $ 2,750,000
Useful Load (lbs)1483
Cabin
Cockpit22
Min Crew11
Total Seats84
Max Cabin Seats63
Standard Cabin Seats62
Engine
FADECYesNo
ModelPT6B-37A250-C20B
Fuel TypeJetFuelJetFuel
TBO (hrs)45003500
Horsepower917420
No. of Engines11
Fuel Capacity (gal)16064
Fuel Burn (gph)35
Dimensions
Length (ft)42.530.9
Overall Height (ft)11.98.7
Rotor Diameter (ft)35.526.4