Cessna 402 vs Piper Chieftain PA-31-350
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) | Cessna 402 | Piper Chieftain PA-31-350 |
|---|---|---|
| All events | 325 | — |
| Serious | 23 | — |
| Fatal | 78 | — |
| Fatalities | 230 | — |
| % Fatal | 24% | — |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Cessna 402 | Piper Chieftain PA-31-350 |
|---|---|---|
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| Price Range | — | $199,500 – $435,000 |
| Category | — | Multi Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 9 | — |
| Horsepower | 300 HP | — |
| Cruise Speed | 200 kts (370 km/h) | — |
| Range | 1,200 nm (2,222 km) | — |
| Service Ceiling | 26,800 ft (8,169 m) | — |
| Max Gross Weight | 6,300 lbs (2,858 kg) | — |
| Useful Load | 2,200 lbs (998 kg) | — |
| Fuel Capacity | 102.0 gal (386 L) | — |
| Fuel Burn | 30.0 GPH (114 L/h) | — |
| TBO | 1,600 hrs | — |
| Overhaul Cost | $40,000 | — |
| Annual Fixed | $35,000 | — |
| Hourly Variable | $380 | — |
| Engines | 2 x Piston (Turbocharged) | — |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna 402
Fuel$165/hr
Variable$380/hr
Annual Fixed$35,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$111,000/yr
Piper Chieftain PA-31-350
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Cessna 402 or Piper Chieftain PA-31-350?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 402 cruises at 200 kts with 1,200 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Piper Chieftain PA-31-350: from $199,500.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna 402 and Piper Chieftain PA-31-350?
402 engine: CONTINENTAL TSIO-520-VB (300 hp).
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
402: about $380/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?
402: 9 seats / 2,200 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?
402: 1,600-hour TBO, overhaul ~$40,000.
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