_Robinson_R44_Cadet_on_display_at_the_2019_Australian_International_Airshow_(1).jpg)
Where it fits well
- 109 kt cruise supports efficient local and regional flying.
- 300 nm advertised range creates a practical planning radius of about 216 nm with 2 occupants.
- 261 kg realistic payload proxy and 2 seats define the usable cabin mission.
Key figures
Indicative planning data, compiled 2026-07. Verify against the AFM and records.
| Seats | 2 |
| Realistic payload with mission fuel | 261 kg |
| Advertised range | 300 nm |
| Practical planning radius (4 people) | 201 nm |
| Cruise speed | 109 kt |
| Runway need | Vertical |
| Pressurised | No |
| Fuel | Avgas 100LL |
| Fixed annual base | €28k |
| Direct cost per flight hour | €300 |
The ownership trade-off
A capable two-seat trainer using the R44 platform, but calendar overhaul and component lives dominate economics.
Cost picture at different usage
- 40 hours/year: about €40k per year ( €1000 per flight hour all-in)
- 80 hours/year: about €52k per year ( €650 per flight hour all-in)
- 120 hours/year: about €64k per year ( €533 per flight hour all-in)
- 180 hours/year: about €82k per year ( €456 per flight hour all-in)
Older examples add calendar-driven maintenance: a 2011-built airframe is estimated at €65k per year at 80 hours. Condition, engine time remaining and avionics matter more than the year itself — price the aircraft in front of you, not the model.
Limitations to price honestly
- A capable two-seat trainer using the R44 platform, but calendar overhaul and component lives dominate economics.
- €28k fixed annual planning base before flying a single hour.
- Component life and mission-specific landing permissions dominate real-world utility.
Recommended missions
- Solo or two-person flying where low complexity matters more than cabin capacity.
- Short and medium regional trips, accepting fuel stops when conditions require.
- Recreational, training or personal travel where operating efficiency is more important than airline-like speed.