429 vs S-76D
429 and S-76D are closely matched, each topping 3 of 7 metrics.
Cross-shopping the Bell Textron 429 (introduced 2009) against the Sikorsky S-76D (introduced 2012) 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 S-76D carries more passengers. Below we compare them spec by spec, then break down which aircraft suits which mission.
6 more specs per aircraft — ceiling, climb, cabin, dimensions and more — are free with an account.
429 vs S-76D: the key differences
- The 429 and S-76D are evenly matched on range, both at 411 nm.
- The S-76D delivers 3% more cruise speed (429: 150 kt; S-76D: 155 kt).
- The S-76D delivers 63% more passenger capacity (429: 8 seats; S-76D: 13 seats).
- The S-76D 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 S-76D is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (11,700 lbs versus 7,000 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 S-76D 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 429 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the S-76D when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the S-76D 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.
More comparisons
429 vs S-76D: FAQs
Does the 429 or S-76D seat more passengers?
The S-76D carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 13 seats, compared with 8 on the 429.
Which is faster, the 429 or the S-76D?
The S-76D cruises faster, at 155 kt versus 150 kt for the 429.
Which is newer, the 429 or the S-76D?
The S-76D is the newer design, introduced in 2012 versus 2009 for the 429.
Is the 429 or the S-76D the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the S-76D is the larger aircraft — 11,700 lbs versus 7,000 lbs for the 429.
Should I buy the 429 or the S-76D?
Choose the 429 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the S-76D when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the S-76D 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 S-76D?
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.