429 vs AW119Kx
The 429 leads, topping 5 of 7 compared metrics.
The Bell Textron 429 (introduced 2009) and the Leonardo Helicopters AW119Kx (introduced 2000) 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 AW119Kx has the advantage. undefined
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429 vs AW119Kx: the key differences
- The AW119Kx delivers 24% more range (429: 411 nm; AW119Kx: 511 nm).
- The 429 delivers 11% more cruise speed (429: 150 kt; AW119Kx: 135 kt).
- The 429 delivers 14% more passenger capacity (429: 8 seats; AW119Kx: 7 seats).
- The 429 is the newer design (introduced 2009 versus 2000 for the AW119Kx), a gap of 9 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.
- The two differ in powerplant layout: the 429 runs 2 engines against 1 on the AW119Kx — 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 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 AW119Kx when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the 429 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the 429 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 AW119Kx: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the 429 or the AW119Kx?
The AW119Kx has the longer published range — 511 nm versus 411 nm for the 429.
Does the 429 or AW119Kx seat more passengers?
The 429 carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 8 seats, compared with 7 on the AW119Kx.
Which is faster, the 429 or the AW119Kx?
The 429 cruises faster, at 150 kt versus 135 kt for the AW119Kx.
Which is newer, the 429 or the AW119Kx?
The 429 is the newer design, introduced in 2009 versus 2000 for the AW119Kx.
Is the 429 or the AW119Kx the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the 429 is the larger aircraft — 7,000 lbs versus 6,283 lbs for the AW119Kx.
Should I buy the 429 or the AW119Kx?
Choose the AW119Kx when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the 429 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the 429 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 AW119Kx?
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.