Robinson R44 Cadet vs Bell 206 JetRanger

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Robinson R44 Cadet Bell 206 JetRanger
Robinson R44 Cadet
View 21 listings →
Median $527,000
Bell 206 JetRanger
View 81 listings →
Median $493,404
Price Range $361,920 – $563,500 $207,158 – $742,080
Category Piston Helicopters Single Turbine Helicopter
Model Specifications
Seats 2
Horsepower 210 HP
Cruise Speed 105 kts (194 km/h)
Range 300 nm (556 km)
Service Ceiling 14,000 ft (4,267 m)
Max Gross Weight 2,200 lbs (998 kg)
Useful Load 750 lbs (340 kg)
Fuel Capacity 31.0 gal (117 L)
Fuel Burn 14.0 GPH (53 L/h)
TBO 2,400 hrs
Overhaul Cost $150,000
Annual Fixed $25,000
Hourly Variable $185
Engines 1 x Piston

Cost of Ownership

Estimate

Robinson R44 Cadet

Fuel$77/hr
Variable$185/hr
Annual Fixed$25,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $62,000/yr

Bell 206 JetRanger

Which Should You Buy: Robinson R44 Cadet or Bell 206 JetRanger?

Pick the R44 Cadet if…

Pick the 206 JetRanger if…

  • Budget matters — from $207,158 vs $361,920, you save ~$154,762.
  • More inventory — 81 listings vs 21.

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 Cadet or Bell 206 JetRanger?
It depends on your mission and budget. The R44 Cadet cruises at 105 kts with 300 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Robinson R44 Cadet: from $527,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Robinson R44 Cadet and Bell 206 JetRanger?
R44 Cadet engine: Lycoming O-540-F1B5 (derated) (210 hp).
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
R44 Cadet: about $185/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 Cadet: 2 seats / 750 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 Cadet: 2,400-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