Bell 205 vs Mil MI-8
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily
Bell 205
- For sale now
- 3
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 2
- Source marketplaces
- 3
- Model years available
- 1968–1980
Mil MI-8
- For sale now
- 1
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 1
- Source marketplaces
- 1
- Model years available
- 2011–2011
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 205 | MIL MI-8 |
|---|---|---|
| All events | 32 | 1 |
| Serious | 3 | 0 |
| Fatal | 10 | 1 |
| Fatalities | 19 | 13 |
| % Fatal | 31% | 100% |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Bell 205 | MIL MI-8 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $2,295,000 | — |
| Category | Single Turbine Helicopter | — |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 14 | 2 |
| Cruise Speed | 110 kts (204 km/h) | 32 kts (59 km/h) |
| Range | 276 nm (511 km) | 267 nm (494 km) |
| Max Gross Weight | 9,500 lbs (4,309 kg) | 28,660 lbs (13,000 kg) |
| Fuel Burn | 70.0 GPH (265 L/h) | — |
| TBO | 3,500 hrs | — |
| Overhaul Cost | $400,000 | — |
| Annual Fixed | $150,000 | — |
| Hourly Variable | $800 | — |
| Engines | 1 x Turbo-shaft | 1 x Turboshaft |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateBell 205
Fuel$385/hr
Variable$800/hr
Annual Fixed$150,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$310,000/yr
MIL MI-8
Which Should You Buy: Bell 205 or MIL MI-8?
Pick the 205 if…
- More seats — 14 vs 2.
- Faster cruise — 110 kts vs 32 kts.
- Longer range — 276 nm vs 267 nm.
- More inventory — 2 listings vs 1.
Pick the MI-8 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, Bell 205 or MIL MI-8?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 205 cruises at 110 kts with 276 nm range.
The MI-8 cruises at 32 kts with 267 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Bell 205 and MIL MI-8?
205 engine: Lycoming T53-L-13A.
Seats: 14 vs 2.
Cruise: 110 vs 32 kts.
Range: 276 vs 267 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
205: about $800/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?
205: 14 seats.
MI-8: 2 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?
205: 3,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$400,000.
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