Helicopters play a vital role in aviation transport, particularly for short-distance travel and transporting individuals and cargo.
- Business Insider Africa presents the seven most expensive private helicopters in the world
- The list is courtesy of Robb Report
- Different helicopters, like the S-92® and Bell 525 ‘Relentless‘, offer advanced safety features, impressive speeds, and luxurious interiors
In business aviation, helicopters are gaining importance for efficient executive transport within cities and to nearby destinations.
Since their first distance record in 1924, helicopters have showcased durability and versatility. Today, manufacturers and owners are elevating luxury with bespoke features, rivaling private jets.
According to American luxury-lifestyle magazine, Robb Report, modern rotorcraft boast impressive speeds, ranges, and luxurious interiors, redefining the helicopter travel experience.
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Robb Report has curated the most expensive helicopters which includes a presidential helicopter, a special-edition ACH130 co-designed by Aston Martin, and the sleek Bell 525, appropriately named “Relentless.
The list of the world’s top seven most expensive helicopters are presented below;
Sikorsky S-92 Executive (From $27 million)
With over 2.2 million fleet flight hours, the S-92® helicopter sets the standard for safety and reliability across missions like offshore energy transport, search and rescue, and Presidential operations.
Selected in 2014 to replace the U.S. Navy’s Marine One fleet, it remains a trusted platform. The S-92A+ features powerful GE CT7-8A6 engines for improved performance in high-altitude and hot conditions, a Gross Weight Expansion (GWE) with 1,200 lbs extra payload via LifePlus™, and a Phase IV Main Gearbox with auxiliary lubrication, enhancing safety by avoiding immediate landing scenarios.
Bell 525 Relentless (From $20 million)
The Bell 525 “Relentless” offers unmatched performance and luxury. With single-engine flyaway capability, it combines superior payload, range, and advanced technology. Accommodating up to 16 passengers and two pilots, it boasts a 184 mph cruise speed and 629-nautical-mile range. Its Garmin G5000H flight deck features a touchscreen interface, terrain-awareness system, and height alerts for safety.
Inside, passengers enjoy an entertainment lounge with Wi-Fi, moving maps, AV features, ambient lighting, and electro-chromatic windows, all controllable via smart devices.
A limousine-style privacy window ensures discreet VIP communication.
Airbus ACH175 (From $20 million)
The Airbus ACH175 redefines transportation with safety, performance, and luxury. Capable of accommodating 12 passengers, it boasts a 174 mph cruise speed, 613-nautical-mile range, and over six hours of endurance.
Its 17-foot-long, eight-foot-wide cabin offers three customizable configurations, featuring large windows, reclinable leather armchairs, modular seating, a mini-bar, coffee machine, and lavatory.
Advanced environmental and entertainment systems enhance passenger comfort, while the ergonomically designed cockpit provides two pilots with cutting-edge avionics, including autopilot and synthetic vision.
Leonardo AW609 (From $20 million)
The AW609 TiltRotor revolutionizes aerial transport by combining the speed and range of an airplane with the flexibility of a helicopter.
Suited for VIP transport, rescue, and energy services, it offers unmatched performance. Flying at 25,000 feet in a pressurized cabin, it accommodates eight passengers with VIP seating, optional refreshment center, and lavatory.
The advanced cockpit includes digital VFR/IFR avionics, fly-by-wire controls, synthetic vision, and retractable landing lights.
Leonardo AW189 (From $17 million)
The AW189 is a versatile multi-mission helicopter, combining exceptional payload, range, and advanced technologies.
Designed for demanding operations, it features a 50-minute run-dry main transmission, an auxiliary power unit (APU) for pre-flight cabin air-conditioning, and optional Safran Aneto-1K engines for enhanced hot and high performance.
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Capable of transporting up to 14 passengers, it offers a 507-nautical-mile range and 182 mph cruise speed. Its advanced avionics suite and integrated glass cockpit provide superior situational awareness and safety.
ACH160 Exclusive (From $15 million)
The Airbus ACH160 blends elegance with superior performance, making it ideal for avoiding city traffic or enjoying a spontaneous escape. This twin-engine, 10-passenger helicopter offers a 460-nautical-mile range, 178 mph cruise speed, and 68 patented innovations.
Key features include a Fenestron shrouded tail rotor for reduced noise and vibration, soundproofing, and spacious double-pane windows for a quieter cabin.
Customizable interiors include leather armchairs or bench seating, along with trim and storage options. The cockpit boasts Airbus’s Helionix Avionics Suite, four-axis autopilot, synthetic vision, and advanced safety systems
ACH130 Aston Martin Edition (From $6 million)
The ACH130 Aston Martin Edition, the first collaboration between Aston Martin Lagonda and Airbus Corporate Helicopters, brings bespoke luxury car design to the skies.
Inspired by the Aston Martin DB11, it features four interior and exterior design options, with leather-upholstered seats, ultra-suede cabin finishes, and signature brogue detailing.
Boasting a 34-knot maximum cruise speed, a 347-nautical-mile range, and over four hours of flight time, this stylish helicopter combines luxury with high performance.
