H130 vs MD 500E
H130 and MD 500E are closely matched, each topping 3 of 7 metrics.
Cross-shopping the Airbus Helicopters H130 (introduced 2012) against the MD Helicopters MD 500E (introduced 1982) is a common decision, and the two sit closer on paper than the badges suggest. Both are helicopters, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. The clearest separation between them is cabin capacity, where the H130 carries more passengers. We line the numbers up below, then translate them into the mission each aircraft actually wins.
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H130 vs MD 500E: the key differences
- The H130 delivers 44% more range (H130: 335 nm; MD 500E: 232 nm).
- The MD 500E delivers 3% more cruise speed (H130: 130 kt; MD 500E: 134 kt).
- The H130 delivers 60% more passenger capacity (H130: 8 seats; MD 500E: 5 seats).
- The H130 is the newer design (introduced 2012 versus 1982 for the MD 500E), a gap of 30 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The H130 is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (5,070 lbs versus 3,000 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
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?
On published specifications the H130 leads on both range and cabin capacity, so it suits operators who want maximum mission flexibility from a single airframe. The MD 500E can still be the smarter buy on acquisition cost, operating economics, runway performance, or current availability — the factors that rarely show up in a spec sheet. Our acquisition advisory team can model both against your actual mission profile before you commit.
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H130 vs MD 500E: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the H130 or the MD 500E?
The H130 has the longer published range — 335 nm versus 232 nm for the MD 500E.
Does the H130 or MD 500E seat more passengers?
The H130 carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 8 seats, compared with 5 on the MD 500E.
Which is faster, the H130 or the MD 500E?
The MD 500E cruises faster, at 134 kt versus 130 kt for the H130.
Which is newer, the H130 or the MD 500E?
The H130 is the newer design, introduced in 2012 versus 1982 for the MD 500E.
Is the H130 or the MD 500E the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the H130 is the larger aircraft — 5,070 lbs versus 3,000 lbs for the MD 500E.
Should I buy the H130 or the MD 500E?
On published specifications the H130 leads on both range and cabin capacity, so it suits operators who want maximum mission flexibility from a single airframe. The MD 500E can still be the smarter buy on acquisition cost, operating economics, runway performance, or current availability — the factors that rarely show up in a spec sheet. Our acquisition advisory team can model both against your actual mission profile before you commit.
Still weighing up the H130 vs MD 500E?
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.