Leonardo Aw169 vs Subaru Bell 412epx
The Leonardo AW169 and Subaru Bell 412EPX sit in different helicopter categories, with the AW169 generally considered a modern light-intermediate twin and the 412EPX a medium twin derived from the long-running Huey/412 line. In typical configurations, the AW169 tends to emphasize a newer-generation cabin and systems in a smaller airframe, while the 412EPX prioritizes rugged utility and higher useful load in a larger, heavier platform. On range, both are broadly comparable in real-world mission planning, but the AW169 is often marketed with strong cruise efficiency for point-to-point transport, whereas the 412EPX commonly trades some cruise efficiency for lift and hot-and-high capability. Exact range varies significantly with payload, fuel reserves, and mission profile. For passenger capacity, an AW169 is commonly arranged for about six to eight passengers plus crew in executive/utility layouts, while a 412EPX typically accommodates more, often around eight to thirteen passengers depending on seating and mission equipment. Overall, choose the AW169 for smaller, faster, modern transport missions and the 412EPX when payload, cabin volume, and utility robustness are primary.
| Spec | AGUSTA / LEONARDO AW169 | Subaru Bell 412EPX |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 11.84 | $ 12.09 |
| Min Crew | 1 | — |
| Total Seats | 12 | 15 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Leonardo | Subaru Bell |
| Aircraft Name | AW169 | 412EPX |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | Certified |
| Max Range (nm) | 440 | 361 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.99 | $ 0.86 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 10 | 13 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified | Un-Verified |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 10 | 13 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 1,658 | $ 1,487 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | EFIS | Bell BasiX-Pro |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 140 | 123 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $9,450,000 | $ 12,875,000 |
| Useful Load (lbs) | — | 5385 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 12 | 15 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 10 | 13 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 10 | 13 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | PW210A | PT6T-9 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | Jet Fuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 1000 | 1370 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 113 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | — | 330.5 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 48.1 | 52.1 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 14.8 | 11.5 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 222.5 | — |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 49.5 | 28 |
| Width (ft) | — | 33 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | — | 220 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | — | 46 |