Guimbal Cabri G2 vs Robinson Helicopters R44 Raven I
The Guimbal Cabri G2 and the Robinson R44 Raven I are both light civil helicopters, but they sit in different utility categories. The Cabri G2 is typically considered a two-seat training and light touring helicopter, optimized for flight schools and economical operation. The R44 Raven I is a four-seat light utility helicopter, commonly used for personal transport, sightseeing, and some commercial roles where extra seats and payload matter. In passenger capacity, the difference is straightforward: the Cabri G2 generally carries a pilot and one passenger, while the R44 Raven I carries a pilot plus up to three passengers, making it better suited to small-group travel. In range, the R44 Raven I generally offers a longer practical cross-country reach thanks to greater fuel capacity and higher cruise performance, whereas the Cabri G2’s range is typically more modest and aligned with training sorties and short trips. Exact range figures vary with fuel options, reserves, density altitude, and loading, but as a general comparison the R44 tends to support longer legs, while the Cabri prioritizes efficiency and training-friendly handling.
| Spec | Guimbal Cabri G2 | ROBINSON R44 Raven I |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| DOC / nm | $ 1.71 | $ 2.30 |
| Total Seats | 2 | 4 |
| Flight Rules | VFR | VFR |
| Manufacturer | Guimbal | Robinson Helicopters |
| Aircraft Name | Cabri G2 | R44 Raven I |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 406 | 300 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.86 | $ 0.57 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 617 | 950 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 171 | $ 248 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Guimbal Digtal EPM | Gyro / Analog |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 100 | 108 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $385,000 | $ 412,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Total Seats | 2 | 4 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | No | No |
| Model | 0-360-J2A | O-540 |
| Fuel Type | AvGas | AvGas |
| TBO (hrs) | 2000 | 2200 |
| TBO (yrs) | 12 | 12 |
| Horsepower | 180 | 225 |
| Fuel Delivery | Carbureted | Carbureted |
| No. of Engines | 1 | 1 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | — | 29.5 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 20.7 | 38.3 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 8.2 | 10.8 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 23.7 | 33 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 7 | — |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 0.7 | 2.5 |