H130 vs AW109 GrandNew
The AW109 GrandNew leads, topping 4 of 7 compared metrics.
The Airbus Helicopters H130 (introduced 2012) and the Leonardo Helicopters AW109 GrandNew (introduced 2012) are two aircraft buyers regularly weigh against each other. Both are helicopters, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. The clearest separation between them is range, where the AW109 GrandNew has the advantage. undefined
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H130 vs AW109 GrandNew: the key differences
- The AW109 GrandNew delivers 67% more range (H130: 335 nm; AW109 GrandNew: 561 nm).
- The AW109 GrandNew delivers 16% more cruise speed (H130: 130 kt; AW109 GrandNew: 151 kt).
- The H130 and AW109 GrandNew are evenly matched on passenger capacity, both at 8 seats.
- The AW109 GrandNew is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (6,283 lbs versus 5,070 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
- The two differ in powerplant layout: the H130 runs 1 engine against 2 on the AW109 GrandNew — a factor in redundancy, maintenance scope and operating cost.
Which mission suits which aircraft
Both aircraft are built for short-haul and regional hops, so outright range rarely separates them — the call leans on cabin (the H130 seats more), trip economics and what is actually available on the market. Match the airframe to how you fly most weeks, not to the headline range figure.
Which should you choose?
Choose the AW109 GrandNew when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the H130 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the AW109 GrandNew holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
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H130 vs AW109 GrandNew: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the H130 or the AW109 GrandNew?
The AW109 GrandNew has the longer published range — 561 nm versus 335 nm for the H130.
Which is faster, the H130 or the AW109 GrandNew?
The AW109 GrandNew cruises faster, at 151 kt versus 130 kt for the H130.
Is the H130 or the AW109 GrandNew the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the AW109 GrandNew is the larger aircraft — 6,283 lbs versus 5,070 lbs for the H130.
Should I buy the H130 or the AW109 GrandNew?
Choose the AW109 GrandNew when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the H130 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the AW109 GrandNew holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
Still weighing up the H130 vs AW109 GrandNew?
Specs only take you so far. Our advisors give an independent recommendation based on your mission, budget and how you actually fly — and represent your side through to purchase.