H130 vs EC135: Which Helicopter Is Best for Your Charter?

Choosing the Right Private Helicopter in Dubai — Airbus H130 vs EC135

When chartering a private helicopter in Dubai, two models consistently stand out for performance, safety, and comfort: the Airbus H130 and Airbus EC135.Both are excellent choices for city transfers, desert excursions, or luxury connections to resorts, but depending on your needs — capacity, range, or privacy — one may suit your itinerary better.Here’s how they compare for Dubai helicopter charters.

1. Passenger Capacity and Cabin Comfort

H130:A single-engine model designed for up to 6 passengers, featuring a spacious cabin with panoramic windows — ideal for short leisure flights over Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, or Burj Khalifa.The open layout and visibility make it perfect for sightseeing or quick air transfers.

EC135:A twin-engine helicopter typically seating 5 passengers comfortably (6 in VIP configurations).Its quieter, more enclosed cabin is best for business transfers or clients seeking maximum privacy.

→ Choose the H130 for panoramic sightseeing.→ Opt for the EC135 for quieter, more private executive travel.

2. Noise Levels and Ride Quality

H130:Equipped with a Fenestron tail rotor that greatly reduces external noise — perfect for flights near residential areas or coastal resorts such as Jumeirah or The Palm.

EC135:Renowned as one of the quietest helicopters in its class, with low-vibration technology and twin engines that deliver a smoother, almost silent flight.

→ For ultra-quiet, vibration-free rides, the EC135 leads in refinement.

3. Range and Speed

H130:Maximum range around 600 km, cruising at 210 km/h — ideal for regional hops such as Dubai to Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, or Ras Al Khaimah.

EC135:Slightly longer range (635 km) with similar speed, making it ideal for multi-leg itineraries or cross-border flights to Oman or Saudi Arabia.

→ For short scenic routes, both perform flawlessly.→ For longer flights or return transfers, the EC135 offers greater flexibility.

4. Safety and Redundancy

H130:A trusted single-engine helicopter with an excellent safety record, used widely across Europe and the Middle East.

EC135:Features twin-engine redundancy, providing enhanced safety — particularly valuable for overwater flights, night operations, or less favorable weather conditions.

→ For overwater routes (e.g. to Sir Bani Yas or Abu Dhabi islands), the EC135 is the safer choice.

5. Availability and Operating Costs

H130:More cost-effective to operate and often easier to secure last-minute, especially for short tours or resort transfers.

EC135:A more premium option, frequently reserved for VIP clients or business travel, often requiring earlier booking during peak seasons.

→ When flexibility or budget is key, the H130 is ideal.→ For premium comfort and enhanced performance, choose the EC135.

Conclusion

Both the Airbus H130 and EC135 deliver luxury, safety, and reliability for private helicopter charters in Dubai.The H130 is perfect for scenic flights, day transfers, and light itineraries, while the EC135 offers elevated comfort, privacy, and range for executive or overwater travel.

Navélia Private Jets & Helicopters Dubai will help you select the right aircraft for your journey — ensuring seamless service, precision, and comfort from takeoff to landing.