Bell 407 vs Eurocopter H130
The H130 (wide cabin, Fenestron, low noise) and Bell 407 compare two premium single-turbine machines for tours, EMS and corporate work.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Bell 407 | Eurocopter H130 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $2,000,000 – $4,700,000 | $586,948 – $2,550,000 |
| Category | Single Turbine Helicopter | Single Turbine Helicopter |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 7 | 7 |
| Horsepower | 675 HP | — |
| Cruise Speed | 133 kts (246 km/h) | 125 kts (232 km/h) |
| Range | 330 nm (611 km) | 330 nm (611 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 18,500 ft (5,639 m) | 23,000 ft (7,010 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 5,250 lbs (2,381 kg) | 5,511 lbs (2,500 kg) |
| Useful Load | 2,347 lbs (1,065 kg) | 2,400 lbs (1,089 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 131.0 gal (496 L) | 143.0 gal (541 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 40.0 GPH (151 L/h) | 42.0 GPH (159 L/h) |
| TBO | 3,500 hrs | 3,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $350,000 | $350,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $100,000 | $100,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $550 | $500 |
| Engines | 1 x Turboshaft | 1 x Turboshaft |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateBell 407
Fuel$220/hr
Variable$550/hr
Annual Fixed$100,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$210,000/yr
Eurocopter H130
Fuel$231/hr
Variable$500/hr
Annual Fixed$100,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$200,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Bell 407 or Eurocopter H130?
Bottom line: Choose the H130 for the widest cabin in the single class, low noise (Fenestron tail) and tour/EMS comfort; choose the Bell 407 for ride quality, useful load and the Bell network. H130 = cabin/noise; 407 = ride/support.
Pick the 407 if…
- Faster cruise — 133 kts vs 125 kts.
- More inventory — 38 listings vs 18.
Pick the H130 if…
- Budget matters — from $586,948 vs $2,000,000, you save ~$1,413,052.
- Lower operating cost — ~$500/hr vs $550/hr.
- Newer design — production from 2001 vs 1996.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Bell 407 or Eurocopter H130?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 407 cruises at 133 kts with 330 nm range.
The H130 cruises at 125 kts with 330 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Bell 407: from $3,350,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Bell 407 and Eurocopter H130?
407 engine: Rolls-Royce 250-C47B (675 hp).
H130 engine: Safran Turbomeca Arriel 2D.
Cruise: 133 vs 125 kts.
Range: 330 vs 330 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
407: about $550/hr variable cost.
H130: about $500/hr variable cost.
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?
407: 7 seats / 2,347 lb useful load.
H130: 7 seats / 2,400 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?
407: 3,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$350,000.
H130: 3,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$350,000.
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