Antonov AN-2 vs De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver

The Antonov An-2 and DHC-2 Beaver are classic radial STOL utility haulers — the An-2 a huge single-radial biplane, the Beaver a rugged radial/turbine monoplane bush legend.

Full Specs Comparison

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Spec / Model Antonov AN-2 De Havilland DHC-2 BEAVER
Antonov AN-2
View 4 listings →
Median $267,718
De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver
View 2 listings →
Median $650,000
Price Range $20,428 – $2,400,000 $650,000
Category Single Engine Piston Single Engine Piston
Model Specifications
Seats 1
Max Gross Weight 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg)
Engines 1 x Piston

Which Should You Buy: Antonov AN-2 or De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver?

Bottom line: Choose the Beaver for Western support, float pedigree and resale; choose the An-2 for enormous load/cabin at low acquisition cost (radial-parts + registration feasibility are the key factors). Beaver = support/float/resale; An-2 = capacity/value.

Pick the AN-2 if…

  • Budget matters — from $20,428 vs $650,000, you save ~$629,572.
  • More inventory — 4 listings vs 2.

Pick the DHC-2 Beaver if…

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Antonov AN-2 or De Havilland DHC-2 BEAVER?
It depends on your mission and budget. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Antonov AN-2: from $2,400,000. De Havilland DHC-2 BEAVER: from $650,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Antonov AN-2 and De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver?
AN-2 engine: Shvetsov Ash-62.
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?
AN-2: 1 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