2003 Robinson R44 Raven I

The Robinson R44 Raven I, introduced in 2000, was the first R44 with hydraulically boosted flight controls and adjustable pedals, greatly reducing pilot workload. It is powered by a carbureted Lycoming O-540-F1B5 producing 225 hp, driving a four-seat airframe at a 2,400 lb gross weight. The Raven I offers the practicality of the R44 family at a lower acquisition and overhaul cost than the fuel-injected Raven II, making it one of the most popular owner-flown and training helicopters worldwide. Used examples generally sell between $120,000 and $450,000 depending on year and hours since overhaul. Buy it if you want the lowest-cost route into an R44 and operate at lower altitudes; step up to the Raven II if you regularly fly hot-and-high or want to avoid carburettor-heat management.