While they are more expensive than some private jets, helicopters can also be cheap. If you are wondering about the cheapest helicopters on the market, we have you covered with the best models we could find.
Brantly B-2 – $100,000
This model might not be as performant and complex as those you might be used to, but it will still get the job done. The main advantage of this aircraft is its price, which can be considered quite cheap compared to other models.
The US Army wanted a new light helicopter in 1946, so they developed the Brantly B-2. Lower specs are used, and there are 330 models produced since 1958.
HeliWhale Afalina – $120,000
It is new and modern as production started recently in 2016. Many people believe this private aircraft is the world’s cheapest, as it is easy to maintain and operate. This company created this 2-seater with a special design which quickly appealed to the public.
Over time, they grew in popularity, and more and more orders came in. People were ordering the Afalina for under $120,000, which is quite a favorable deal for the value. With a range of 470 miles, this 2-person helicopter can reach speeds up to 120 mph.
- Capacity: 2.
- Crew: 1.
- Empty weight: 595 lb
- Height: 9 ft 2 in
- Length: 23 ft 7 in
- Max takeoff weight: 1,102 lb
- Propellers: 6-bladed composite.
Robinson R22 – $328,000
The R22 was developed decades ago when the TV became popular. News crews worldwide demanded a low-cost helicopter they could use for filming. Still, they didn’t find any since there were almost no civilian-owned models since all of them were for military use.
Robinson paid attention to this demand and designed a small civilian helicopter with the ability to carry two people and several cameras in different positions. The R22 came out with better specifications than its competitors while selling at a lower price.
| Name | Robinson R22 | Imperial | Metric |
| Cruise speed | 96 kn | 110 mph | 178 km/h |
| Disk loading | 2.61 lb/sq ft | 12.7 kg/m2 | |
| Never exceed speed | 102 kn | 117 mph | 189 km/h |
| Power/mass | 0.095 hp/lb | ||
| Range | 209 nmi | 241 mi | 387 km |
| Rate of climb | 1,200 ft/min | 6.1 m/s | |
| Service ceiling | 14,000 ft | 4,300 m |
Guimbal Cabri G2 – $350,000
Guimbal G2 is the perfect general aviation helicopter for training, which is why it is also among the smallest ones in the world. The small size does not represent its performance as well, as there is one of the most powerful piston engines fitted on this aircraft.
Lighter materials were used instead of cheaper and heavier ones. It ensures high performance for the G2 which can cruise at a top speed of 104 mph. With a range of 430 miles, this is the perfect choice for short trips in your area.
| Name | Guimbal Cabri G2 |
| Engine | Lycoming O 360 J2A |
| High | 2.50 m (2.37 m above rotor head) |
| Length (hull) | 6.31 m |
| Length (overall) | 8,05 m |
| Main rotor diameter | 7.20 m |
| Main rotor speed | 515 – 540 rpm |
| Tail rotor diameter | 0.60 m |
| Take-off power | 145 HP |
| Track width | 1,60 m |
Enstrom F-28 – $360,000
The F-28 is mostly used as a general aviation helicopter or helicopter trainer. It is suitable for beginners, as it was one of the first models produced after they stopped being exclusive to the military.
While manufacturers started designing complex aircraft, Enstrom took the opportunity to design ultralight models that sell at an affordable price. Over time, the F-28 grew in popularity. More people placed orders for their first personal helicopter.
- Capacity: two passengers.
- Crew: one.
- Empty weight: 1,570 lb
- Height: 9 ft 0 in
- Length: 29 ft 3 in
- Max takeoff weight: 2,600 lb
Where to find them for sale
Suppose you are a buyer and want to purchase small, cheap, or luxurious helicopters. In that case, you should go to AvBuyer. It is a global online marketplace.
Here you can buy and sell various aircraft, as this company offers a wide range of categories. These categories include private jets, helicopters, and even light aircraft.
They cover large regions across the world. They operate on all continents except Antarctica, so you can use their services whether you are in Asia or North America. Flying is possible worldwide nowadays, so global operation is a minimum standard. We are no longer bound by the limits of our environment.
This platform is designed to give you an easy-to-use service. The attractive interface will make browsing enjoyable for hours. The aircraft are grouped into categories that you can manually sort. This way, you can shop by region or by a specific model.
Besides being a marketplace, the company also offers hubs focused on engine maintenance and many other services. Users can benefit from a feature that analyses the difference between aircraft. It makes it easier for you to compare two different models.
With this feature, you can easily identify which one is the most suited for you. On their marketplace, you will find a wide range of products, and you are welcome regardless of how big or small your budget is.
Here are some other places to look for helicopters:
- Aerotrader
- Globalair
- BusinessAir
- JetListings
What’s your favorite platform to use?
