Piper Chieftain vs Cessna 402
The Piper Chieftain (PA-31-350) and Cessna 402 are the two classic unpressurised cabin-class commuter/cargo twins — both ~9-10 seat workhorses with large cabins, long careers in feeder and charter operations.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Piper Chieftain | Cessna 402 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $90,000 – $679,000 | $150,000 – $175,290 |
| 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) |
| Max Gross Weight | — | 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg) |
| Useful Load | — | 2,200 lbs (998 kg) |
| 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 Reciprocating |
Cost of Ownership
EstimatePiper Chieftain
Cessna 402
Fuel$165/hr
Variable$380/hr
Annual Fixed$35,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$111,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Piper Chieftain or Cessna 402?
Bottom line: Choose by support, parts and airframe condition — both are proven workhorses. The Chieftain offers a slightly larger cabin and counter-rotating props; the 402 offers the Cessna support network and easy large-door loading.
Pick the Chieftain if…
- Budget matters — from $90,000 vs $150,000, you save ~$60,000.
- More inventory — 28 listings vs 4.
Pick the 402 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, Piper Chieftain or Cessna 402?
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?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Piper Chieftain and Cessna 402?
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