Eurocopter H135 vs Bell 429

The H135 (twin Fenestron EMS/corporate) and Bell 429 are the leading light-twin helicopters — both EMS/corporate favourites, the H135 with its enclosed Fenestron tail, the 429 with a flat-floor cabin.

Live Market Snapshot

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

Eurocopter H135
For sale now
20
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
6
Source marketplaces
5
Model years available
1985–2025
Bell 429
For sale now
15
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
4
Source marketplaces
6
Model years available
2012–2027

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)Eurocopter H135Bell 429
All events3
Serious1
Fatal2
Fatalities3
% Fatal67%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Eurocopter H135 Bell 429
Eurocopter H135
View 19 listings →
Median $2,040,000
View 15 listings →
Median $5,650,000
Price Range $1,914,000 – $2,166,000 $5,650,000
Category Twin Turbine Helicopter Twin Turbine Helicopter
Model Specifications
Seats 8 8
Cruise Speed 137 kts (254 km/h) 135 kts (250 km/h)
Range 343 nm (635 km) 380 nm (704 km)
Service Ceiling 20,000 ft (6,096 m)
Max Gross Weight 6,415 lbs (2,910 kg) 7,500 lbs (3,402 kg)
Useful Load 2,800 lbs (1,270 kg)
Fuel Capacity 200.0 gal (757 L)
Fuel Burn 62.0 GPH (235 L/h)
Engines 2 x Turboshaft

Which Should You Buy: Eurocopter H135 or Bell 429?

Bottom line: Choose the H135 for the proven EMS install base, Fenestron safety/noise and hot-and-high; choose the Bell 429 for a wider flat-floor cabin and Bell support. H135 = EMS-pedigree/Fenestron; 429 = cabin/network.

Pick the H135 if…

  • Budget matters — from $1,914,000 vs $5,650,000, you save ~$3,736,000.
  • Faster cruise — 137 kts vs 135 kts.
  • More inventory — 19 listings vs 15.

Pick the 429 if…

  • Longer range — 380 nm vs 343 nm.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Eurocopter H135 or Bell 429?
It depends on your mission and budget. The H135 cruises at 137 kts with 343 nm range. The 429 cruises at 135 kts with 380 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 Eurocopter H135 and Bell 429?
429 engine: Pratt & Whitney Canada PW207D1. Cruise: 137 vs 135 kts. Range: 343 vs 380 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?
H135: 8 seats. 429: 8 seats / 2,800 lb useful load. 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