Bell 505 vs Robinson R66
The Robinson R66 and Bell 505 Jet Ranger X are direct modern rivals — both new-generation five-seat turbine singles with glass cockpits, competing closely on price and capability.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Bell 505 | Robinson R66 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $1,300,000 – $2,681,652 | $1,504 – $1,921,420 |
| Category | Single Turbine Helicopter | Single Turbine Helicopter |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Horsepower | 504 HP | 270 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 125 kts (232 km/h) | 110 kts (204 km/h) |
| Range | 340 nm (630 km) | 350 nm (648 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 20,000 ft (6,096 m) | 14,000 ft (4,267 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 3,680 lbs (1,669 kg) | 2,700 lbs (1,225 kg) |
| Useful Load | 1,500 lbs (680 kg) | 1,100 lbs (499 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 76.0 gal (288 L) | 74.0 gal (280 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 30.0 GPH (114 L/h) | 23.0 GPH (87 L/h) |
| TBO | 3,000 hrs | 2,200 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $250,000 | $200,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $80,000 | $35,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $400 | $300 |
| Engines | 1 x Turboshaft | 1 x Turbine |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateBell 505
Fuel$165/hr
Variable$400/hr
Annual Fixed$80,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$160,000/yr
Robinson R66
Fuel$126/hr
Variable$300/hr
Annual Fixed$35,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$95,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Bell 505 or Robinson R66?
Bottom line: choose the R66 for a lower entry price (~$470K vs ~$1.3M), lower operating cost and a separate baggage hold. Choose the Bell 505 if you prefer its higher cruise speed and the Bell support network, and the price premium is acceptable.
Pick the 505 if…
- Faster cruise — 125 kts vs 110 kts.
- Newer design — production from 2017 vs 2010.
Pick the R66 if…
- Budget matters — from $1,504 vs $1,300,000, you save ~$1,298,496.
- Lower operating cost — ~$300/hr vs $400/hr.
- Longer range — 350 nm vs 340 nm.
- More inventory — 88 listings vs 25.
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 505 or Robinson R66?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 505 cruises at 125 kts with 340 nm range.
The R66 cruises at 110 kts with 350 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Bell 505: from $1,300,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Bell 505 and Robinson R66?
505 engine: Safran Arrius 2R (504 hp).
R66 engine: Rolls-Royce RR300 (270 hp).
Cruise: 125 vs 110 kts.
Range: 340 vs 350 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
505: about $400/hr variable cost.
R66: about $300/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?
505: 5 seats / 1,500 lb useful load.
R66: 5 seats / 1,100 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?
505: 3,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$250,000.
R66: 2,200-hour TBO, overhaul ~$200,000.
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