Robinson R22 vs Schweizer 300C
The Robinson R22 and Schweizer 300C are the two classic piston trainers. The R22 is lighter, faster and cheaper to run; the three-seat 300C is heavier, slower and known for its rugged, fully articulated rotor system.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Robinson R22 | Schweizer 300C |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $18,000 – $449,000 | $10,000 – $300,552 |
| Category | Piston Helicopters | Piston Helicopters |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 2 | 3 |
| Horsepower | 124 HP | 190 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 96 kts (178 km/h) | 75 kts (139 km/h) |
| Range | 209 nm (387 km) | 195 nm (361 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 14,000 ft (4,267 m) | — |
| Max Gross Weight | 1,370 lbs (621 kg) | 2,050 lbs (930 kg) |
| Useful Load | 454 lbs (206 kg) | 600 lbs (272 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 gal (64 L) | — |
| Fuel Burn | 10.0 GPH (38 L/h) | 8.0 GPH (30 L/h) |
| TBO | 2,200 hrs | 2,200 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $60,000 | $80,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $15,000 | $20,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $140 | $180 |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Reciprocating |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateRobinson R22
Fuel$55/hr
Variable$140/hr
Annual Fixed$15,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$43,000/yr
Schweizer 300C
Fuel$44/hr
Variable$180/hr
Annual Fixed$20,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$56,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Robinson R22 or Schweizer 300C?
Bottom line: pick the R22 for lower operating cost, higher cruise speed and a far larger used market and global support. Pick the Schweizer 300C if you value its three seats, heavier build and docile training characteristics, and can accept lower speed and a smaller support network.
Pick the R22 if…
- Lower operating cost — ~$140/hr vs $180/hr.
- Faster cruise — 96 kts vs 75 kts.
- Longer range — 209 nm vs 195 nm.
- Newer design — production from 1979 vs 1975.
- More inventory — 155 listings vs 7.
Pick the 300C if…
- Budget matters — from $10,000 vs $18,000, you save ~$8,000.
- More seats — 3 vs 2.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Robinson R22 or Schweizer 300C?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The R22 cruises at 96 kts with 209 nm range.
The 300C cruises at 75 kts with 195 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 Robinson R22 and Schweizer 300C?
R22 engine: Lycoming O-320 (124 hp).
300C engine: Lycoming HIO-360-D1A (190 hp).
Seats: 2 vs 3.
Cruise: 96 vs 75 kts.
Range: 209 vs 195 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
R22: about $140/hr variable cost.
300C: about $180/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?
R22: 2 seats / 454 lb useful load.
300C: 3 seats / 600 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?
R22: 2,200-hour TBO, overhaul ~$60,000.
300C: 2,200-hour TBO, overhaul ~$80,000.
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