Bell 412 vs Mil MI-8
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 · re-checked on a rolling daily cycle
- For sale now
- 15
- Model years available
- 1981–2014
- For sale now
- 1
- Model years available
- 2011–2011
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) | Bell 412 | MIL MI-8 |
|---|---|---|
| All events | 57 | 1 |
| Serious | 4 | 0 |
| Fatal | 29 | 1 |
| Fatalities | 110 | 13 |
| % Fatal | 51% | 100% |
Full Specs Comparison
| Spec / Model | Bell 412 | MIL MI-8 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $5,200,000 | — |
| Category | Twin Turbine Helicopter | — |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 15 | 24 |
| Horsepower | 1,800 HP | 1,700 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 122 kts (226 km/h) | 120 kts (222 km/h) |
| Range | 360 nm (667 km) | 267 nm (494 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 20,000 ft (6,096 m) | 20,000 ft (6,096 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | — | 28,660 lbs (13,000 kg) |
| Useful Load | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) | 8,000 lbs (3,629 kg) |
| Fuel Burn | 100.0 GPH (378 L/h) | 180.0 GPH (681 L/h) |
| Engines | 2 x Turboshaft | 2 x Turboshaft |
Which Should You Buy: Bell 412 or MIL MI-8?
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.
Pick the 412 if…
- Faster cruise — 122 kts vs 120 kts.
- Longer range — 360 nm vs 267 nm.
Pick the MI-8 if…
- More seats — 24 vs 15.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.