How Much a Private Helicopter ACTUALLY Costs to Own | Real Life R44 Ownership Numbers

This is the number one question we get on our helicopter videos: "How much does a private helicopter cost to own?"

This is a real life cost breakdown for both used and new Robinson R44 Raven II helicopters (4 seater) in the personal/private owner setting, with specific emphasis of the economics of owning a Robinson helicopter with respect to 2200 hour/12 year calendar limits.

And sorry, we said that the next video will be "how to afford to fly a helicopter" but we haven't shot that yet so you'll have to wait a bit longer 😬

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[RobertoBlake]

Thanks for putting this out. I feel less conflicted about putting out a video about some videos about my camera gear

[ndikumanalewis]

I have no intention on owning a helicopter but informational videos like these is what makes me love YouTube. Great video!

[mensiphotography]

I really liked that video. Us Canadians are always “shy/ashamed” to talk about our success or luxury. You studied really really long for med school and becoming a pilot so it’s not like you stole anything. You should be proud. Love you guys and thanks for sharing the info!

[BorisdaSFR]

I am part of a UH-1H (Huey) demo team, our operating costs hover around $2000 an hour (pun intended) (Chris come fly with us!)
Also, in the US, if a pilot did their training in a model other than an R44, you have an additional cost of 10 hours training to be signed off in the R44 due to special training requirements set fourth by the FAA.
I came here for the helicopters a few years ago, and have now learned more about photography and cameras then I ever thought I would know. Keep it up.

[TheJamesmcdiarmid]

Enjoyed your video... I’ve owned R22 and R44 in the past - great machines - I used to commute to work in the ‘44 and always said to myself ‘you’re living an extraordinary life’ every time I started the engine. When the day came that it felt mundane I knew it was time to quit. So I did! Enjoy your flying! I love the Matt black paint job 👌

[TedwardDrives]

The next time someone asks me why I stopped flying, I will refer them to this video haha

[jaredwatney]

As a PPL-H pilot with a Licence about to lapse, this is kind of why I bought a bush plane. Honestly just as much fun and definitely cost much less.

[j.schofield]

To all the haters Chris has worked hard and made sacrifice to enjoy the things in his life. I'll never own a helicopter but when I do get the chances to be in one I always savour the moment. Well done Doc & Becki

[CKramburglar]

There is roughly 0% chance I will ever own or fly a helicopter, but it’s still quite interesting to see how it breaks down. Especially learning how hard a cap they have on operational time. Will add an extra level of appreciation for all the planning that must go into your helicopter videos

[johnreynolds]

As a creative director myself, I love your aesthetic, the palette you use is a joy! Kudos to you both. John x

[danielleallen]

There’s something so comforting about the way Chris breaks things down for explanation, whether it’s helicopters or camera gear or life in general. I’m here for all of it.

[planeswithperry]

Chris, you have a refreshing level of humility in deciding whether to post the video given what's going on in the world. I found it excellent with giving an open and honest breakdown of the numbers for ownership. You work hard for ability to fly, and on the front lines of a pandemic as well. True class act. I love the videos you two create and look forward to the next one. Cheers!

[longrangewiththelillys]

I’ve been flying helicopters for 13yrs now. I got my training through the military. I don’t think I would have been able to pursue this outside of that path.

[MuhammadZwink]

Thank you guys for deciding to post this. It makes the prospect of operating a private helicopter feel more accessible, though not more affordable quite yet! Keep up the great content!

[aboynamedjamil]

Chris you do look more comfortable in front of the camera alone in the two years that has passed. Becki is so good and natural! I love the dynamic that you guys have. The banter is so genuine and filled with love. It's great to watch you too.

[CoreAndBlue]

Glad that you guys went ahead and published this video. No matter the level of interest in actually flying, let alone owning an helicopter, this made for a really enjoyable watch and the shear amount of dedication to pursue one’s passion is impressive.

[ianlu]

Moral of the story: Chris is one smart man and knows his Econ and math

[ZekesView]

First - I love the details and the pure honesty behind this.. Second.. I love how Chris just breaks it all down. It’s super cool and just love it. Thanks for sharing.

[adamzurawski]

I don’t think people know how hard you have worked to get yourself to the point of affording a helicopter. Glad you guys enjoy flying, makes for cool videos.

[shabazzprestige]

I'm so glad that you guys finally made this video! I think a lot of people are interested in helicopter ownership but aren't aware of the hidden costs. This is extremely helpful.