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Robinson Helicopters R44 Cadet vs Robinson Helicopters R44 Raven I vs Robinson Helicopters R44 Raven Ii

All three models are light, single‑engine piston helicopters in the Robinson R44 family, typically used for training, touring, and utility flying. The R44 Cadet is optimized for flight training and cost efficiency; it is generally configured for two people (pilot plus one passenger) with simplified equipment and lower typical payload, and it tends to offer the shortest practical range of the three due to its training‑oriented configuration. The R44 Raven I is the standard four‑seat version (pilot plus up to three passengers) and provides more typical cross‑country capability than the Cadet, with a moderate range suited to regional trips. The R44 Raven II remains a four‑seat aircraft like the Raven I but uses an upgraded fuel‑injected engine and improved systems; in real‑world operations it is often chosen for better hot‑and‑high performance and efficiency, and it commonly delivers the best overall range and useful capability among the three, depending on equipment, loading, and operating conditions.

SpecROBINSON R44 CadetROBINSON R44 Raven IROBINSON R44 Raven II
Summary
DOC / nm$ 2.22$ 2.30$ 2.36
Total Seats244
Flight RulesVFRVFRVFR
ManufacturerRobinson HelicoptersRobinson HelicoptersRobinson Helicopters
Aircraft NameR44 CadetR44 Raven IR44 Raven II
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)300300300
DOC / nm / Seat$ 1.11$ 0.57$ 0.59
OEM VerificationUn-VerifiedUn-VerifiedUn-Verified
Useful Load (lbs)763950995
Direct Operating Cost$ 238$ 248$ 257
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Gyro / AnalogGyro / AnalogGyro / Analog
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)107108109
Base Aircraft Price (USD) $344,000 $ 412,000$ 490,000
Cabin
Total Seats244
Engine
FADECNoNoNo
ModelO-540O-540IO-540
Fuel TypeAvGasAvGasAvGas
TBO (hrs)220022002200
TBO (yrs)121212
Horsepower210225245
Fuel DeliveryCarburetedCarburetedFuel Injected
No. of Engines111
Fuel Capacity (gal)29.529.529.5
Dimensions
Length (ft)38.338.338.3
Overall Height (ft)10.810.810.8
Rotor Diameter (ft)333333
Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft)2.52.52.5