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Home / How Much Does It Cost to Fly a Helicopter

How Much Does It Cost to Fly a Helicopter

Tomsum is a technology and transportation enthusiast who enjoys researching and writing about issues that are relevant to today's consumers.

Have you ever wondered how much a new helicopter costs? Here's the low-down.

Have you ever wondered how much a new helicopter costs? Here's the low-down.

How Much Is a Helicopter?

Have you ever wondered how much a helicopter costs?

I have too. In fact, I'm sure lots of people have wondered about the price of a helicopter. I decided to do some research and write this article to give people a realistic ballpark price range for common and popular helicopter models. I'm going to start with the cost of a basic, low-end helicopter, then work up to some of the more advanced and expensive helicopters.

Generally, the first thing to decide if you are looking at the cost of a helicopter is whether you are after a smaller two-seater or a larger multi-passenger model. One of the most popular brands in the world when it comes to helicopters is Robinson. Although at one time, Bell manufactured more helicopters than any other company (primarily due to the popularity of their B206 JetRanger), Robinson helicopters are now renowned for costing less to buy and run. Read on for a price comparison chart and additional info about some of the most commonly purchased helicopters available to the public.

The features of these helicopters is described fully below.

Model Price

1. Robinson R-22

$250,000

2. Robinson R-44 Raven I

$340,000

3. Robinson R-44 Raven II

$415,000

4. Bell B206 JetRanger

$700,000

4. Eurocopter EC120 Colibri Hummingbird

$1,700,000
The lightweight and responsive R-22 is a popular choice for those seeking a lower-cost helicopter.

The lightweight and responsive R-22 is a popular choice for those seeking a lower-cost helicopter.

1. Robinson R-22

Considered by many to be one of the world's most economical helicopters, the R-22 carries a base list price of about $250,000 brand new. There are also plenty of excellent deals to be found on good-quality used R-22s, usually starting from around $100,000–$150,000.

Due to the R-22's cheap operating costs, it is often used as a training helicopter. This lightweight two-seater has very low inertia which allows it to be extremely responsive to flight control inputs. In short, it is fun to fly. However, the R-22 is not very forgiving of pilot-error or sluggishness and as such is not recommended for beginners or those without much flying experience.

Price: Approx. $250,000

The Raven models are considered by many to be better personal helicopters than the R22, but they come at higher prices. (Pictured is the Raven I.)

The Raven models are considered by many to be better personal helicopters than the R22, but they come at higher prices. (Pictured is the Raven I.)

The Raven models are considered by many to be better personal helicopters than the R22, but they come at higher prices. (Pictured is the Raven II.)

The Raven models are considered by many to be better personal helicopters than the R22, but they come at higher prices. (Pictured is the Raven I.)

2–3. Robinson R-44 Raven I & II

The Robinson R-44 Raven line is a very popular choice among flying experts. Many argue it is the worlds best model for personal ownership regardless of price. It has four seats and comes in two models, the Raven I and the Raven II.

The Raven models are heavier than the R-22, which allows them to fly through wind gusts and turbulent air more solidly. They are also much safer to fly as "training helicopters" because they allow pilots several additional seconds to activate autorotation, a feature used to land during an engine failure.

Price:

  • Raven I: Approx. $340,000
  • Raven II: Approx. $415,000
Bell's B206 JetRanger can seat five people including the pilot, but comes at more than twice the cost of Robinson's Raven I.

Bell's B206 JetRanger can seat five people including the pilot, but comes at more than twice the cost of Robinson's Raven I.

4. Bell B206 JetRanger

The five-seater Bell B206 JetRanger is another very popular helicopter, both with military personnel and civilians. It has a two-blade main rotor and a two-blade tail rotor. This model and all of its variants are what have kept Bell Helicopters on par with the Robinson line in terms of popularity. It costs considerably more than the R-44, but is also a little larger.

Price: Approx. $700,000

By far the most expensive helicopter on this list, the lightweight EC120 Colibri Hummingbird has a 5-passenger capacity and comes equipped with a variety of high-end safety features.

By far the most expensive helicopter on this list, the lightweight EC120 Colibri Hummingbird has a 5-passenger capacity and comes equipped with a variety of high-end safety features.

5. Eurocopter EC120 Colibri Hummingbird

The Eurocopter EC120 is a very quiet and comfortable helicopter, but it does come with a high price tag that reflects its advantageous features. Considering it has five seats and a single-engine and rotor, it is a relatively light helicopter. It is also equipped with numerous crash-resistant technology systems involving both the seats and the fuel system.

Price: Approx. $1,700,000

Read More From Toughnickel

Are You Buying a Helicopter?

If you are interested in purchasing your own helicopter, then you're probably looking at a price tag of anywhere from $250,000–$1,700,000. Depending on whether you want a small, responsive two-seater or a spacious five-seater with state-of-the-art safety features, you could be spending anywhere from a quarter-million to almost two!

Obviously there are numerous factors to consider (training costs, operational costs, storage costs, etc.), but hopefully you now have a realistic idea about the upfront cost associated with purchasing a new helicopter. Whether you were just curious or are seriously considering buying one, now you're in the know!

This article is accurate and true to the best of the author's knowledge. Content is for informational or entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for personal counsel or professional advice in business, financial, legal, or technical matters.

Nura Buhari on September 04, 2020:

pls can you help me to get job in your company?i'm in Bodinga local govt sokoto state nigeria.

AMAAN on September 02, 2020:

wow i thought helis are expensive inshallah i will buy one

El kanemi 2nd on August 31, 2020:

My favorite transport material but I rather give my money to the poor one's

Anil on August 01, 2020:

I will buy that hummingbird one day

Naison on July 22, 2020:

I will buy the most expensive one ...###Futurebillionaire

Kid on July 17, 2020:

Id rather buy a boat and a very expensive car when i grow up

Dré Scott on June 21, 2020:

Hey guys this is sick

Elvis on June 18, 2020:

The private hospital ambulance model of this Eurocopter EC120 Colibri

Hummingbird would cost how much?

i would appreciate urgent reply!

benard koech on May 18, 2020:

have been dreaming and wishing to have 1 soon,helis are my best flying dude

Hafizul Afra on May 16, 2020:

I like the black bell one.

Trey Sumler on May 05, 2020:

Ooooooh I want a helicopter

prasun kunwar on April 25, 2020:

to earn huge amount of money and buy private jet and helicopter for my parents

Roy on April 19, 2020:

I think I will take 2 of the Eurocopters.

MOHAMMAD ARSHAD JALALI on March 31, 2020:

What is the fuel consumption?

How cost maintenance per year?

Bhila David on March 08, 2020:

It's possible for me to buy helicopter

Aarush Modi on January 27, 2020:

Scary after Kobe's death. RIP with the greats

Lyndon G. Santos on January 16, 2020:

owning a helicopter now a days is Pleasurable as well as Profitable. can some one point me were can i find some data on how to make frofit in owning a helicopter.

Kester Davidson on January 12, 2020:

My dream to be

Carlos on January 01, 2020:

Actually we did wonder how much a Helicopter costs.

Godfrey on December 24, 2019:

Dreaming since childhood to become a pilot, anyone to assist please

edu rono on December 13, 2019:

Add Your Comment.if i buy today the company trained me to be a pilot with other helicopter coz i buy for my not to employed pilot.

Apostle Alonge on November 04, 2019:

I love the five seater and its features mainly for my ministerial assignment on crusades others. Trusting God for it shortly.

Kumar on October 23, 2019:

I will buy on credit card & will pay EMI uptill my next births coming....

samuel on October 23, 2019:

If I bring a client do i get a commission ?

Mantas on October 20, 2019:

So either this... Or a lamborghini look out Jake Paul is about to get a helicopter license

King khan on October 18, 2019:

How I am buy it?

AYUSH SINGH RAJPUT on October 08, 2019:

I AM BUY A HELICOPTER ONE DAY

Adîl mirza on October 02, 2019:

One day i will buy .

Raj kumar jaiswal on September 21, 2019:

I like one day flying

Ranjit Kumar on September 14, 2019:

It's my dream one day I will buy

Daniel on August 03, 2019:

Thanks for the information

Vivek singh on July 02, 2019:

How I want buy

sultanumer.can@gmail.com on June 21, 2019:

i will buy one day

bahaddin on June 20, 2019:

Hello could you explain to me about final price and shipping

Harrison on June 13, 2019:

Thanks for the information

RAJESH KUMAR on May 27, 2019:

we are not for helicopter but helicopter is for us

Survesh tripathi on May 18, 2019:

Its 1.20 cr. To 6 cr. So can be buy. But first i will find need, then i buy. Because passion is only for some day but need is for forever.

Stuti tiwari on May 14, 2019:

My dream is buy a helicopter & one day I will buy......

U.P.

Usman khan on April 02, 2019:

I want to fly but i have no Helicaptor

some one please gift me

james on March 29, 2019:

I need a 2 seat helicopter

sunil on March 18, 2019:

my dream is to buy some types of chopper in my whole life

Virendra Kumar Yadav on February 25, 2019:

Dharasuna cholapur Varanasi u.p. India

K-air on February 21, 2019:

Helicopter pics are super cool...

http://www.k-aircharters.com/

J man on February 13, 2019:

We will buy 1 day

anil Kumar on February 08, 2019:

1 day i Will buy

mukisa henry on February 04, 2019:

am looking for a used four seats helicopter but the price is starting at how much in us dollars?

Sachin verma on January 31, 2019:

I was thinking about that first of all question is arise every one .what is the cost of it.

I want to fly in the sky

This is my dream

kyle\ on December 20, 2018:

nice ariticle

Steve B on October 25, 2018:

It's about time someone put this list together. I've been chopper-shoppin' for months and couldn't find a good resource to compare the different makes and models. I was going to buy the Raven I, but I don't want to look cheap.

sunil jaiswal on October 24, 2018:

can i buy a helicopter personally.

how much it cost in indian rupees

Kenneth Tetteh on October 21, 2018:

This article is great

Najeebsanni on October 11, 2018:

I want to be an aeronautic engineering please god help me with a helicopter

Braiden on October 05, 2018:

I like helecopters

md saif on October 04, 2018:

Insha Allah one day i will buy hlocptr

Sihail bhai on October 02, 2018:

Helecoptare

ali on September 13, 2018:

can u gift me a Helicopter.....

Anil kumre on August 12, 2018:

It's my dream please God help me

Francis on June 27, 2018:

We need this type of helicopter to fight crime in our country.

Arap Thuo on June 22, 2018:

This is the nearest i have come to understanding the cost of buying a helicopter...How about operational cost like fuel, insurance and tax?

Olan on June 03, 2018:

Thank you very much,

finally a clear article about this topic.

Good Flight at averyone !

MEL on May 29, 2018:

Tuesday, May,29.2018 - GOOD JOB, Tomsum ! I was looking for these information and I found your research on google.

Really HELPFUL ! BE BLESSED !

Levi Tucker on May 16, 2018:

How much is a Agustawestland AW139 Turbine Helicopter.

teensavage on May 08, 2018:

most likey buying a helicopter in the future they are so affordable not even funny one would think they are expensive

Guadalupe Jurado on May 03, 2018:

Why does this cost so much to rent one

Afzal Hussain on April 26, 2018:

Very nice I like a bell206 jetRanger

José tafur on March 29, 2018:

Cicare helicopters from 80.0000 to 150.000 from Meza Arizona

Rajesh Aggarwal on March 04, 2018:

I always dreamt about buying a "Flying Bird".. Definitely its a great information very helpful to achieve my "Goal". Of course there are certain reservations also like pilot salary Hanger charges License etc... anyway all the information is really "Great.... atleast one can dream to have one

Rajesh Aggarwal

India on February 12, 2018:

Wow it's reasonable cost. I will buy in future

GYAN on October 30, 2017:

Wow... My dream may be fulfilled in near future because of its price range..

Rahul raikwar on September 28, 2017:

My dream that i want to buy any one of them in future

venky on August 18, 2017:

My ever dream to buy this collibri humming bird is very nice.please help me god to make it occupied

Pakistan on August 17, 2017:

I will buy ;) ;)

Heidar Rasteh on May 30, 2017:

Thank you Tomsum, your research on helicopter prices was useful for me.

Kindly yours

Heidar

vitaliabits on June 24, 2015:

How lovely how nice?

Josie on October 08, 2014:

wow! i want to buy the Colibri Hummingbird. it looks like my style!!

Muktar Hossain on May 03, 2014:

wow!! Its a great..................lol

Faizan on April 24, 2014:

Actually, firstly when i

Abdillah Mabrouk on April 11, 2014:

thank you,i always wondered ,how much these things cost!

only wishies were horses.........!

nakesh nair on November 29, 2013:

It's very beautiful but no prices in Indian currency

geoenvirons on March 31, 2013:

hi , kamal are u buying one and thinking it to take nepal..i am from nepal too..its too expensive..but we are crazy to buy it...so plz let me know i want to know..how u goin to decide...

Denni on January 04, 2013:

Ask and it is given.

Raby on December 24, 2012:

this is it

KAMAL on September 12, 2012:

CAN WE BRING IT TO NEPAL

Rose on June 10, 2012:

Thanks.Though thinking more on the line of a Sikorsky, an S-76 or S-92.They look more stable and secure,what do you think?

mrrainp on May 30, 2012:

I want to buy the latest one

bob on April 22, 2012:

thank you, this was very helpful!

rodrigo on February 14, 2012:

Very cool

John Janiszewski from Flushing, Michigan on January 15, 2012:

cool hub! you can build your own home built experimental helicopter for about 65K. Just google "rotorway helicopter". It has a FEDEC controlled piston engine. If I was rich I would buy one :)

Emma from Houston TX on February 24, 2011:

Thanks for article. atleast it will help most of us who have interest in buying it.

tomsum (author) from Australia on February 22, 2011:

@Money Glitch - Thanks!

Money Glitch from Texas on February 21, 2011:

Congrats on being selected as a HubNugget nominee. :)

tomsum (author) from Australia on February 21, 2011:

@wendy87 - Yeah the yellow one is my favourite too :) Thanks for your comment!

wendy87 on February 21, 2011:

the yellow helicopter in your hub is cool!!!!!! unique hub voted up

tomsum (author) from Australia on February 19, 2011:

@ripplemaker - Wow, this is a really great surprise! Thanks a lot :)

Michelle Simtoco from Cebu, Philippines on February 18, 2011:

tomsum, that's a pretty good question. Come to think of it, I never thought about asking coz I never thought of buying one. :) But now I know .. just in case! LOL

Congratulations to your Hubnuggets nomination. Yes, your hub has been nominated in the Autos category. Yehey! This link will take you there: https://hubpages.com/hubnuggets6/hub/Hubnuggets-in... If not, just grab a helicopter and follow me!

How Much Does It Cost to Fly a Helicopter

Source: https://toughnickel.com/misc/How-much-does-a-Helicopter-cost