Robinson R88 vs Robinson R44
This compares today's best-selling four-seat R44 with Robinson's upcoming R88 — a large single-turbine with first deliveries projected for 2027–2028. One is a proven aircraft you can buy now; the other is a future model trading on pre-order.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Robinson R88 | Robinson R44 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | — | $23,292 – $899,999 |
| Category | Single Turbine Helicopter | Piston Helicopters |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | — | 4 |
| Horsepower | — | 260 HP |
| Cruise Speed | — | 110 kts (204 km/h) |
| Range | — | 300 nm (556 km) |
| Service Ceiling | — | 14,000 ft (4,267 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | — | 2,500 lbs (1,134 kg) |
| Useful Load | — | 882 lbs (400 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | — | 48.0 gal (182 L) |
| Fuel Burn | — | 16.0 GPH (61 L/h) |
| TBO | — | 2,200 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | — | $150,000 |
| Annual Fixed | — | $25,000 |
| Hourly Variable | — | $200 |
| Engines | — | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateRobinson R88
Robinson R44
Fuel$88/hr
Variable$200/hr
Annual Fixed$25,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$65,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Robinson R88 or Robinson R44?
Bottom line: choose the R44 if you want a proven four-seat helicopter available on the used market today at piston-economy cost. Consider the R88 only if you need a much larger turbine and are prepared to wait for production and pay turbine-class prices.
Pick the R88 if…
- Newer design — production from 2027 vs 1993.
Pick the R44 if…
- More inventory — 492 listings vs 3.
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 R88 or Robinson R44?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The R44 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 R88 and Robinson R44?
R44 engine: Lycoming O-540 / IO-540 (260 hp).
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
R44: about $200/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: 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: 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