Bell 407 vs Bell 206 JetRanger

The Bell 206 JetRanger and Bell 407 are the classic and the modern Bell light single-turbine helicopters — same lineage, but the 407 is the higher-performance four-blade evolution with more power, a smoother ride and a stand-up cabin where the 206 doesn't quite reach.

Live Market Snapshot

Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily

Bell 407
For sale now
40
Median asking
$2,900,000
Range
$2,099,600–$4,205,348
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
15
Source marketplaces
13
Model years available
1997–2021
Bell 206 JetRanger
For sale now
78
Median asking
$453,960
Range
$301,200–$695,200
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
25
Source marketplaces
13
Model years available
1966–2009

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 407Bell 206 JetRanger
All events148
Serious15
Fatal44
Fatalities112
% Fatal30%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Bell 407 Bell 206 JetRanger
Bell 407
View 37 listings →
Median $2,900,000
Bell 206 JetRanger
View 76 listings →
Median $453,960
Price Range $2,099,600 – $4,205,348 $301,200 – $695,200
Category Single Turbine Helicopter Single Turbine Helicopter
Model Specifications
Seats 7 5
Horsepower 675 HP
Cruise Speed 133 kts (246 km/h) 120 kts (222 km/h)
Range 330 nm (611 km) 337 nm (624 km)
Service Ceiling 18,500 ft (5,639 m)
Max Gross Weight 5,250 lbs (2,381 kg) 3,200 lbs (1,452 kg)
Useful Load 2,347 lbs (1,065 kg)
Fuel Capacity 131.0 gal (496 L)
Fuel Burn 40.0 GPH (151 L/h)
TBO 3,500 hrs
Overhaul Cost $350,000
Annual Fixed $100,000
Hourly Variable $550
Engines 1 x Turboshaft

Cost of Ownership

Estimate

Bell 407

Fuel$220/hr
Variable$550/hr
Annual Fixed$100,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $210,000/yr

Bell 206 JetRanger

Which Should You Buy: Bell 407 or Bell 206 JetRanger?

Bottom line: Choose the Bell 206 for the lowest operating cost, the largest support network and classic JetRanger handling — it remains the world's most popular turbine helicopter. Step up to the 407 when you need more power, better hot-and-high performance, the four-blade rotor's smoother ride and the option of glass-cockpit (GXi) avionics for IFR or commercial roles.

Pick the 407 if…

  • More seats — 7 vs 5.
  • Faster cruise — 133 kts vs 120 kts.

Pick the 206 JetRanger if…

  • Budget matters — from $301,200 vs $2,099,600, you save ~$1,798,400.
  • Longer range — 337 nm vs 330 nm.
  • More inventory — 76 listings vs 37.

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 407 or Bell 206 JetRanger?
It depends on your mission and budget. The 407 cruises at 133 kts with 330 nm range. The 206 JetRanger cruises at 120 kts with 337 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Bell 206 JetRanger: from $450,021. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Bell 407 and Bell 206 JetRanger?
407 engine: Rolls-Royce 250-C47B (675 hp). Seats: 7 vs 5. Cruise: 133 vs 120 kts. Range: 330 vs 337 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
407: about $550/hr variable cost. 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?
407: 7 seats / 2,347 lb useful load. 206 JetRanger: 5 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?
407: 3,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$350,000. 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