Robinson R44 Raven I vs Robinson R88

Live Market Snapshot

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

Robinson R44 Raven I
For sale now
110
Median asking
$229,000
Range
$99,000–$496,350
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
15
Source marketplaces
14
Model years available
1998–2026
Robinson R88
For sale now
3
Source marketplaces
2
Model years available
2028–2028

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)Robinson R44 Raven IRobinson R88
All events4
Serious0
Fatal2
Fatalities3
% Fatal50%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Robinson R44 Raven I Robinson R88
Robinson R44 Raven I
View 106 listings →
Median $229,000
Robinson R88
View 3 listings →
Price Range $99,000 – $496,350
Category Piston Helicopters Single Turbine Helicopter
Model Specifications
Seats 4
Horsepower 225 HP
Cruise Speed 109 kts (202 km/h)
Range 300 nm (556 km)
Service Ceiling 14,000 ft (4,267 m)
Max Gross Weight 2,400 lbs (1,089 kg)
Useful Load 882 lbs (400 kg)
Fuel Capacity 31.0 gal (117 L)
Fuel Burn 15.0 GPH (57 L/h)
TBO 2,200 hrs
Overhaul Cost $150,000
Annual Fixed $25,000
Hourly Variable $200
Engines 1 x Piston

Cost of Ownership

Estimate

Robinson R44 Raven I

Fuel$82/hr
Variable$200/hr
Annual Fixed$25,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $65,000/yr

Robinson R88

Which Should You Buy: Robinson R44 Raven I or Robinson R88?

Pick the R44 Raven I if…

  • More inventory — 106 listings vs 3.

Pick the R88 if…

  • Newer design — production from 2027 vs 2000.

Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Robinson R44 Raven I or Robinson R88?
It depends on your mission and budget. The R44 Raven I cruises at 109 kts with 300 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Robinson R44 Raven I: from $325,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Robinson R44 Raven I and Robinson R88?
R44 Raven I engine: Lycoming O-540-F1B5 (225 hp).
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
R44 Raven I: about $200/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?
R44 Raven I: 4 seats / 882 lb useful load. 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?
R44 Raven I: 2,200-hour TBO, overhaul ~$150,000. 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