Schweizer 300CB vs Robinson R44

Full Specs Comparison

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Spec / Model Schweizer 300CB Robinson R44
Schweizer 300CB
View 2 listings →
Median $189,000
Robinson R44
View 492 listings →
Median $360,000
Price Range $149,000 – $229,000 $23,292 – $899,999
Category Piston Helicopters Piston Helicopters
Model Specifications
Seats 3 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 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg) 2,500 lbs (1,134 kg)
Useful Load 882 lbs (400 kg)
Fuel Capacity 48.0 gal (182 L)
Fuel Burn 10.0 GPH (38 L/h) 16.0 GPH (61 L/h)
TBO 2,200 hrs 2,200 hrs
Overhaul Cost $35,000 $150,000
Annual Fixed $18,000 $25,000
Hourly Variable $160 $200
Engines 1 x Reciprocating 1 x Piston

Cost of Ownership

Estimate

Schweizer 300CB

Fuel$55/hr
Variable$160/hr
Annual Fixed$18,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $50,000/yr

Robinson R44

Fuel$88/hr
Variable$200/hr
Annual Fixed$25,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $65,000/yr

Which Should You Buy: Schweizer 300CB or Robinson R44?

Pick the 300CB if…

  • Lower operating cost — ~$160/hr vs $200/hr.

Pick the R44 if…

  • Budget matters — from $23,292 vs $149,000, you save ~$125,708.
  • More seats — 4 vs 3.
  • Newer design — production from 1993 vs 1975.
  • More inventory — 492 listings 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, Schweizer 300CB 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?
Schweizer 300CB: from $229,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Schweizer 300CB and Robinson R44?
R44 engine: Lycoming O-540 / IO-540 (260 hp). Seats: 3 vs 4.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
300CB: about $160/hr variable cost. 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?
300CB: 3 seats. 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?
300CB: 2,200-hour TBO, overhaul ~$35,000. 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