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Guimbal Cabri G2 vs Robinson Helicopters R22 Beta Ii

The Guimbal Cabri G2 and the Robinson R22 Beta II are both light, two-seat piston helicopters often used for training and private flying, but they sit in slightly different niches. In category terms, the Cabri G2 is a newer-generation two-seat trainer with a strong emphasis on modern safety features and handling stability, while the R22 Beta II is a long-established, widely deployed two-seat trainer known for simplicity, low operating cost, and a large global support network. Passenger capacity is essentially the same for both: one pilot and one passenger/student. On range, both are broadly comparable in typical training or local flight profiles, with real-world differences depending heavily on fuel load, power settings, and environmental conditions; the Cabri G2 often advertises endurance-oriented capability thanks to efficient operation, while the R22’s range is also solid but can be more sensitive to loading and operational constraints. Overall, capacity is equal, category is similar but with different design eras, and range is close enough that mission profile usually matters more than the spec sheet.

SpecGuimbal Cabri G2ROBINSON R22 Beta II
Summary
DOC / nm$ 1.71$ 1.80
Total Seats22
Flight RulesVFRVFR
ManufacturerGuimbalRobinson Helicopters
Aircraft NameCabri G2R22 Beta II
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)406250
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.86$ 0.90
OEM VerificationUn-VerifiedUn-Verified
Useful Load (lbs)617490
Direct Operating Cost$ 171$ 173
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Guimbal Digtal EPMGyro / Analog
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)10096
Base Aircraft Price (USD) $385,000 $ 312,000
Cabin
Total Seats22
Engine
FADECNoNo
Model0-360-J2AO-360
Fuel TypeAvGasAvGas
TBO (hrs)20002000
TBO (yrs)1212
Horsepower180131
Fuel DeliveryCarburetedCarbureted
No. of Engines11
Fuel Capacity (gal)115
Dimensions
Length (ft)20.728.5
Overall Height (ft)8.28.8
Rotor Diameter (ft)23.725.2
Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft)7
Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft)0.71.5