Bell 429 vs Bell 412

The Bell 429 (light twin, ~7 seats) and Bell 412 (medium twin, ~13 seats) are different- class twins — the 429 is the modern light twin for EMS/corporate; the 412 is the medium utility twin for offshore, firefighting and government.

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Bell 429 Bell 412
Bell 429
View 16 listings →
Median $5,650,000
Bell 412
View 15 listings →
Median $5,200,000
Price Range $5,650,000 $5,200,000
Category Twin Turbine Helicopter Twin Turbine Helicopter
Model Specifications
Seats 8 2
Cruise Speed 135 kts (250 km/h) 15 kts (28 km/h)
Range 380 nm (704 km)
Service Ceiling 20,000 ft (6,096 m)
Max Gross Weight 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: Bell 429 or Bell 412?

Bottom line: Choose the Bell 429 for light-twin EMS/corporate missions at lower operating cost. Step up to the Bell 412 when you need medium-twin capacity (13 seats), heavy utility lift and offshore/government mission capability. ================================================================ # SUMMARY — 17 нових high-value пар + 1 data fix ================================================================ 🔧 **Інтегратору**: 1. Створити 17 compare-URL вище (verdict-проза готова). 2. 301-consolidate slug fragmentation (CJ3/CJ4/M2/Mustang citation-duplicates; airbus→eurocopter; hawker-800/800xp canonical decision). 3. Після consolidation — перемапити existing fragmented пари на canonical slugs.

Pick the 429 if…

  • More seats — 8 vs 2.
  • Faster cruise — 135 kts vs 15 kts.
  • Newer design — production from 2009 vs 1979.
  • More inventory — 16 listings vs 15.

Pick the 412 if…

  • Budget matters — from $5,200,000 vs $5,650,000, you save ~$450,000.

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 429 or Bell 412?
It depends on your mission and budget. The 429 cruises at 135 kts with 380 nm range. The 412 cruises at 15 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 Bell 429 and Bell 412?
429 engine: Pratt & Whitney Canada PW207D1. Seats: 8 vs 2. Cruise: 135 vs 15 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?
429: 8 seats / 2,800 lb useful load. 412: 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