Mil MI-8 vs Bell 412

The Mi-8 (heavy twin) and Bell 412 (medium twin) compare maximum capacity against a more supportable, widely-operated medium utility twin.

Live Market Snapshot

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

Mil MI-8
For sale now
1
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
1
Source marketplaces
1
Model years available
2011–2011
Bell 412
For sale now
15
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
5
Source marketplaces
6
Model years available
1981–2014

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)MIL MI-8Bell 412
All events157
Serious04
Fatal129
Fatalities13110
% Fatal100%51%
View full MIL MI-8 NTSB record →View full Bell 412 NTSB record →

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model MIL MI-8 Bell 412
View 1 listings →
Bell 412
View 12 listings →
Median $5,200,000
Price Range — $5,200,000
Category — Twin Turbine Helicopter
Model Specifications
Seats 2 15
Cruise Speed 32 kts (59 km/h) 122 kts (226 km/h)
Range 267 nm (494 km) —
Max Gross Weight 28,660 lbs (13,000 kg) —
Engines 1 x Turboshaft 2 x Turboshaft

Which Should You Buy: MIL MI-8 or Bell 412?

Bottom line: Choose the Bell 412 for Western support, easier registration and medium-utility versatility; choose the Mi-8 for far greater lift capacity at lower cost (specialist support). Bell 412 = support/versatile; Mi-8 = lift/value. ================================================================ # CROSS-REFS — Sikorsky/Bell mirrors. Registration/parts feasibility = decisive Mi-8 factor (see safety).

Pick the MI-8 if…

Pick the 412 if…

  • More seats — 15 vs 2.
  • Faster cruise — 122 kts vs 32 kts.
  • More inventory — 12 listings vs 1.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, MIL MI-8 or Bell 412?
It depends on your mission and budget. The MI-8 cruises at 32 kts with 267 nm range. The 412 cruises at 122 kts. 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 MIL MI-8 and Bell 412?
Seats: 2 vs 15. Cruise: 32 vs 122 kts.
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?
MI-8: 2 seats. 412: 15 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