What is the purchase price for a used Cessna 402?

Used Cessna 402 aircraft vary by model year: earlier models (1966-1985) cost $40,000-$100,000; mid-period variants (1985-2000) range $100,000-$200,000; modern examples (2000+) cost $200,000-$350,000. The Cessna 402 remains one of general aviation's most popular utility twin-engine aircraft.

How much fuel does a Cessna 402 consume per hour?

The Cessna 402 with Continental IO-520 engines burns approximately 25-30 gallons per hour total at 75% power. At current Avgas prices of $6.00-$7.00 per gallon, fuel costs are approximately $150-$210 per flight hour. The Cessna 402 offers good fuel efficiency for its size and capability.

What are annual fixed costs for Cessna 402 ownership?

Annual fixed costs for a used Cessna 402 average $10,000-$14,000 and include: hangar storage ($1,500-$2,500/year), insurance ($3,500-$5,000/year), annual inspection ($1,500-$2,500), and miscellaneous maintenance ($3,000-$4,000). Newer aircraft with more avionics cost more to maintain.

Is the Cessna 402 suitable for cargo and commercial operations?

Yes. The Cessna 402's large cargo door, excellent payload capacity, and twin-engine redundancy make it ideal for cargo, charter, and air ambulance operations. Many Cessna 402s operate successfully in commercial service. The aircraft's reliability and established support infrastructure make it practical for commercial use.

What engine maintenance is required for Cessna 402?

Each Continental IO-520 engine has a 2,000-hour TBO. Overhauls cost $18,000-$30,000 per engine. Maintenance costs typically run $20-$30 per flight hour including reserves for overhauls. Engine condition significantly affects total ownership cost.

Cessna 402 Cost of Ownership

The versatile twin-engine cargo aircraft. Expect to pay $100,000-$350,000 and operate at $240-$310 per hour.

Complete breakdown of purchase costs, fuel expenses, maintenance, insurance, and annual ownership budgets.

Cessna 402: Versatile Twin-Engine Workhorse

The Cessna 402 has established itself as one of general aviation's most versatile twin-engine aircraft, serving cargo operators, charter companies, and flight schools worldwide. Since introduction in 1966, the Cessna 402 has proven its reliability in demanding operational environments. The aircraft's large cargo door, excellent payload capacity, and reliable Continental engines make it ideal for operators requiring practical twin-engine transportation.

Why Pilots Choose the Cessna 402

The Cessna 402 appeals to cargo operators seeking large payload capacity; charter and airline operators; and flight schools offering multi-engine training. The large cargo door and spacious cabin provide excellent versatility. Operating costs remain reasonable for a twin-engine aircraft of this size.

Purchase Price: What You'll Pay

Early Models (1966-1985): $40,000-$100,000 - Basic platforms with simple avionics.
Mid-Period Models (1985-2000): $100,000-$200,000 - Improved systems and avionics.
Modern Variants (2000+): $200,000-$350,000 - Latest technology and optional glass cockpits.

Financing & Insurance

Financing for $100K-$350K aircraft typically requires 20-25% down with 10-15 year terms at 5.5-8.0% interest. Insurance runs $3,500-$5,000/year depending on pilot experience, operational use, and hull value.

Operating Costs

Fuel consumption: 25-30 GPH at cruise. At $6.00-$7.00/gal Avgas, fuel costs $150-$210/hour. Maintenance reserves average $20-$30/hour. Engine overhaul reserves: $15-$25/hour. Total variable costs: $200-$290/hour.

Annual Ownership Examples

100 hours/year: $12,000 fixed + $22,000 variable = $34,000 total ($340/hour)

300 hours/year: $12,000 fixed + $66,000 variable = $78,000 total ($260/hour)

Is Cessna 402 Ownership Worth It?

Yes, for operators prioritizing cargo capacity and operational flexibility. The Cessna 402 delivers practical twin-engine transportation for commercial operations. For charter and cargo services, the Cessna 402 offers strong value and versatility.

Sources and Citations

PlanePhD Aircraft Valuation Database - Cessna 402 (2025)
Aircraft Cost Calculator - Operating Costs
AOPA Pilot Resource Center

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