Robinson R44 Astro vs Robinson R88

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Robinson R44 Astro Robinson R88
Robinson R44 Astro
View 5 listings →
Median $64,000
Robinson R88
View 3 listings →
Price Range $23,298 – $139,000
Category Piston Helicopters Single Turbine Helicopter
Model Specifications
Seats 4
Horsepower 225 HP
Cruise Speed 110 kts (204 km/h)
Range 300 nm (556 km)
Service Ceiling 14,000 ft (4,267 m)
Max Gross Weight 2,400 lbs (1,089 kg)
Useful Load 882 lbs (400 kg)
Fuel Capacity 31.0 gal (117 L)
Fuel Burn 15.0 GPH (57 L/h)
TBO 2,200 hrs
Overhaul Cost $150,000
Annual Fixed $25,000
Hourly Variable $180
Engines 1 x Piston

Cost of Ownership

Estimate

Robinson R44 Astro

Fuel$82/hr
Variable$180/hr
Annual Fixed$25,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $61,000/yr

Robinson R88

Which Should You Buy: Robinson R44 Astro or Robinson R88?

Pick the R44 Astro if…

  • More inventory — 5 listings vs 3.

Pick the R88 if…

  • Newer design — production from 2027 vs 1993.

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 R44 Astro or Robinson R88?
It depends on your mission and budget. The R44 Astro cruises at 110 kts with 300 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 R44 Astro and Robinson R88?
R44 Astro engine: Lycoming O-540-F1B5 (225 hp).
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
R44 Astro: 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?
R44 Astro: 4 seats / 882 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?
R44 Astro: 2,200-hour TBO, overhaul ~$150,000. 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