429 vs AW109 GrandNew
The AW109 GrandNew leads, topping 5 of 7 compared metrics.
The Bell Textron 429 (introduced 2009) 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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429 vs AW109 GrandNew: the key differences
- The AW109 GrandNew delivers 36% more range (429: 411 nm; AW109 GrandNew: 561 nm).
- The AW109 GrandNew delivers 1% more cruise speed (429: 150 kt; AW109 GrandNew: 151 kt).
- The 429 and AW109 GrandNew are evenly matched on passenger capacity, both at 8 seats.
- The AW109 GrandNew is the newer design (introduced 2012 versus 2009 for the 429), a gap of 3 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The 429 is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (7,000 lbs versus 6,283 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 429 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 429 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.
429 vs AW109 GrandNew: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the 429 or the AW109 GrandNew?
The AW109 GrandNew has the longer published range — 561 nm versus 411 nm for the 429.
Which is faster, the 429 or the AW109 GrandNew?
The AW109 GrandNew cruises faster, at 151 kt versus 150 kt for the 429.
Which is newer, the 429 or the AW109 GrandNew?
The AW109 GrandNew is the newer design, introduced in 2012 versus 2009 for the 429.
Is the 429 or the AW109 GrandNew the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the 429 is the larger aircraft — 7,000 lbs versus 6,283 lbs for the AW109 GrandNew.
Should I buy the 429 or the AW109 GrandNew?
Choose the AW109 GrandNew when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the 429 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 429 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.