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Enstrom Helicopter 480b G vs Robinson Helicopters R44 Raven I

The Enstrom 480B-G and the Robinson R44 Raven I are both light, single‑engine piston helicopters used for training, personal transport, and utility work, but they differ in emphasis. The Enstrom 480B-G is typically positioned as a rugged light utility/training helicopter with a strong focus on stability and durability, often appealing to operators who prioritize robust handling and operational toughness. The Robinson R44 Raven I is more commonly seen as a high‑utilization personal and commercial platform, widely used for flight training and sightseeing due to its large installed base and straightforward operating profile. In range, both are designed for short to medium missions, but the R44 Raven I is generally known for having a longer typical range/endurance in standard configurations than the 480B-G, depending on fuel setup, payload, and conditions. For passenger capacity, both are four‑seat helicopters in common configurations, accommodating a pilot plus up to three passengers, though practical loading depends on weight, fuel, and mission equipment.

SpecEnstrom Helicopter 480B-GROBINSON R44 Raven I
Summary
Cockpit2—
DOC / nm$ 2.83$ 2.30
Min Crew1—
Total Seats44
Flight RulesVFRVFR
ManufacturerEnstrom HelicopterRobinson Helicopters
Aircraft Name480B-GR44 Raven I
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)370300
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.71$ 0.57
Max Cabin Seats3—
OEM VerificationUn-VerifiedUn-Verified
Useful Load (lbs)1180950
Standard Cabin Seats2—
Direct Operating Cost$ 326$ 248
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Garmin G1000HGyro / Analog
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)115108
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$ 1,425,000$ 412,000
Cabin
Cockpit2—
Min Crew1—
Total Seats44
Max Cabin Seats3—
Standard Cabin Seats2—
Engine
FADECNoNo
Model250-C20WO-540
Fuel TypeJetFuelAvGas
TBO (hrs)20002200
Horsepower305225
No. of Engines11
Fuel Capacity (gal)9029.5
TBO (yrs)—12
Fuel Delivery—Carbureted
Dimensions
Length (ft)29.938.3
Overall Height (ft)9.610.8
Rotor Diameter (ft)3233
Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft)22—
Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft)—2.5