Cessna 402C vs Piper Chieftain
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily
Cessna 402C
No active listings right now.
Piper Chieftain
- For sale now
- 29
- Median asking
- $234,826
- Range
- $119,925–$584,423
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 11
- Source marketplaces
- 6
- Model years available
- 1973–1984
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) | Cessna 402C | Piper Chieftain |
|---|---|---|
| All events | 106 | — |
| Serious | 9 | — |
| Fatal | 23 | — |
| Fatalities | 69 | — |
| % Fatal | 22% | — |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Cessna 402C | Piper Chieftain |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | — | $119,925 – $584,423 |
| Category | Multi Engine Piston | Multi Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | — | 10 |
| Cruise Speed | — | 205 kts (380 km/h) |
| Range | — | 950 nm (1,759 km) |
| Max Gross Weight | — | 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Cessna 402C or Piper Chieftain?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Chieftain cruises at 205 kts with 950 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Piper Chieftain: from $375,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna 402C and Piper Chieftain?
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?
Chieftain: 10 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