Agusta AW109 Power vs Bell 222

The Bell 222 and AgustaWestland AW109 are 1980s-era sleek light twins — both retractable-gear corporate/EMS twins; the AW109 is faster and has enjoyed continuous development, the 222 is the characterful American classic.

Live Market Snapshot

Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily

Agusta AW109 Power
For sale now
18
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
7
Source marketplaces
7
Model years available
2000–2009
Bell 222
For sale now
5
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
2
Source marketplaces
2
Model years available
1981–1992

Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.

Safety Record

Absolute counts scale with fleet size — the most-produced types log more events without being less safe. Compare the % fatal.

NTSB (1982–now)Agusta AW109 PowerBell 222
All events48
Serious2
Fatal10
Fatalities27
% Fatal21%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Agusta AW109 Power Bell 222
Agusta AW109 Power
View 18 listings →
Median $1,495,000
Bell 222
View 5 listings →
Median $822,536
Price Range $1,409,500 – $1,634,500 $707,754 – $937,319
Category Twin Turbine Helicopter Twin Turbine Helicopter
Model Specifications
Seats 8 2
Cruise Speed 154 kts (285 km/h) 133 kts (246 km/h)
Range 503 nm (932 km) 282 nm (522 km)
Max Gross Weight 6,283 lbs (2,850 kg) 8,100 lbs (3,674 kg)
Engines 2 x Turboshaft 2 x Turboshaft

Which Should You Buy: Agusta AW109 Power or Bell 222?

Bottom line: Choose the AW109 for higher speed, ongoing support and a modern development path. Choose the Bell 222 only as a lower-cost classic light twin, with realistic budgets for older systems and a smaller support base.

Pick the AW109 Power if…

  • More seats — 8 vs 2.
  • Faster cruise — 154 kts vs 133 kts.
  • Longer range — 503 nm vs 282 nm.
  • More inventory — 18 listings vs 5.

Pick the 222 if…

  • Budget matters — from $707,754 vs $1,409,500, you save ~$701,746.

Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Agusta AW109 Power or Bell 222?
It depends on your mission and budget. The AW109 Power cruises at 154 kts with 503 nm range. The 222 cruises at 133 kts with 282 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Agusta AW109 Power and Bell 222?
Seats: 8 vs 2. Cruise: 154 vs 133 kts. Range: 503 vs 282 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
AW109 Power: 8 seats. 222: 2 seats. Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data