De Havilland DH-89A Dragon Rapide vs Piper Aztec
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily
De Havilland DH-89A Dragon Rapide
- For sale now
- 1
- Model years available
- 1944–1944
Piper Aztec
- For sale now
- 30
- Median asking
- $152,000
- Range
- $52,467–$313,500
- Model years available
- 1965–1979
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) | De Havilland DH-89A Dragon Rapide | Piper Aztec |
|---|---|---|
| All events | — | 2 |
| Serious | — | 0 |
| Fatal | — | 0 |
| Fatalities | — | 0 |
| % Fatal | — | 0% |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | De Havilland DH-89A Dragon Rapide | Piper Aztec |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | — | $52,467 – $313,500 |
| Category | Multi Engine Piston | Multi Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 8 | 6 |
| Horsepower | 200 HP | 250 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 132 kts (244 km/h) | 149 kts (276 km/h) |
| Range | 500 nm (926 km) | 1,320 nm (2,445 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 16,500 ft (5,029 m) | 17,600 ft (5,364 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | — | 5,200 lbs (2,359 kg) |
| Useful Load | 1,800 lbs (816 kg) | 1,900 lbs (862 kg) |
| Fuel Burn | 28.0 GPH (106 L/h) | 24.0 GPH (91 L/h) |
| Engines | 2 x Piston | 2 x Piston |
Which Should You Buy: De Havilland DH-89A Dragon Rapide or Piper Aztec?
Pick the DH-89A Dragon Rapide if…
- More seats — 8 vs 6.
Pick the Aztec if…
- Faster cruise — 149 kts vs 132 kts.
- Longer range — 1320 nm vs 500 nm.
- More inventory — 32 listings vs 1.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, De Havilland DH-89A Dragon Rapide or Piper Aztec?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The DH-89A Dragon Rapide cruises at 132 kts with 500 nm range.
The Aztec cruises at 149 kts with 1,320 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Piper Aztec: from $259,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between De Havilland DH-89A Dragon Rapide and Piper Aztec?
DH-89A Dragon Rapide engine: De Havilland Gipsy Six (200 hp).
Seats: 8 vs 6.
Cruise: 132 vs 149 kts.
Range: 500 vs 1320 nm.
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?
DH-89A Dragon Rapide: 8 seats / 1,800 lb useful load.
Aztec: 6 seats / 1,900 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?
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