De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver Cost of Ownership: The Gold Standard Bush Aircraft
The De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver is legendary in aviation circles as arguably the finest bush aircraft ever designed. First flown in 1947 and produced continuously through 1967 (and later by Viking Air), the Beaver combines exceptional short-field capability, outstanding payload, proven reliability, and versatility for operations in remote and challenging environments. Owned and operated by bush pilots, expedition companies, and adventure operators worldwide, the Beaver remains in high demand. Here's the comprehensive financial picture of ownership.
Cost Overview: De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver
Purchase Price (Piston)
$300,000–$400,000
Annual Fixed Costs
(100 hrs)
$12,000–$14,000
Hourly Operating Cost
$250–$350/hr
Fuel Burn
22–28 GPH
Purchase Cost: Investing in Bush Flying Legend
The De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver was produced from 1947 to 1967 in numerous variants. Original piston-powered examples remain the most common in the used market. Viking Air (now owned by Longview Aviation) continues to produce modernized DHC-2-800 variants. Float-equipped variants are especially common in remote regions.
Current Market Prices (2024-2025):
Used De Havilland DHC-2 Piston Beaver aircraft average $300,000-$400,000 depending on engine time, condition, and configuration. Turbocharged variants cost $500,000-$750,000. Modern Viking Air DHC-2-800A variants cost $700,000-$900,000. Specially equipped or float-equipped examples may command premiums.
What Affects Pricing: Engine time since major overhaul is critical for valuation. Aircraft with 0-300 SMOH command substantial premiums. Float versus wheel configuration affects value. Avionics packages vary—basic steam gauges cost less than modern glass cockpit variants. Specialized equipment for bush operations (cargo doors, emergency floats) adds value. Complete maintenance records are highly valued by informed operators.
Fuel Consumption and Operating Economics
The Beaver's fuel consumption is reasonable for its size and capability, reflecting its efficient design and proven powerplant. Bush aircraft economics improve dramatically with higher utilization.
Fuel Burn Specifications:
The De Havilland DHC-2 Piston Beaver with Pratt & Whitney R-985 engine burns approximately 22-28 gallons per hour depending on power settings and altitude. Turbocharged variants burn similar amounts. This translates to fuel costs of:
- At $5.00/gallon: $110-$140 per flight hour
- At $5.40/gallon: $119-$151 per flight hour
- At $6.00/gallon: $132-$168 per flight hour
Fuel represents approximately 50-60% of variable operating costs. The Beaver's efficiency is excellent for a bush aircraft rated for operations from remote fields. Many bush operators achieve exceptional per-hour economics through high utilization in expedition and remote area work.
Engine Overhaul and Maintenance
The De Havilland Beaver's proven powerplant is well-maintained by specialized technicians worldwide. However, the vintage radial engine design requires different maintenance approaches than modern piston engines.
Engine Specifications:
Original Beaver aircraft use Pratt & Whitney R-985 Wasp Junior radial engines producing 450-600 HP with 1,200-2,000 hour overhaul intervals depending on variant and use. Engine overhauls cost $30,000-$50,000. Turbocharged variants have similar costs. Engine reserves should be budgeted at $20-$40 per flight hour.
Annual Maintenance:
Annual inspection typically costs $2,500-$4,000 for a Beaver. Total annual maintenance including inspection, routine maintenance, and reserves averages $6,000-$8,500. Radial engines require different expertise than modern piston engines, making specialized technician access important.
Why Beaver Maintenance is Specialized: Radial engines are robust but require knowledge specific to their design. Parts availability is surprisingly good through specialized suppliers and reconditioning shops. The Beaver's design simplicity aids maintainability. Many bush areas have experienced Beaver technicians familiar with remote-area maintenance requirements.
Insurance and Pilot Requirements
Annual Insurance Costs:
Insurance for a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver ranges $3,000-$5,000 per year for comprehensive hull and liability coverage. Bush aircraft insurance is specialized but remains reasonable relative to the aircraft's value. Higher utilization in commercial operations may increase premiums.
Pilot Requirements: Standard commercial pilot license required for bush operations. Float plane endorsement if operated on floats. Mountain flying experience recommended for high-altitude operations. Insurance may require minimum experience or bush flying qualifications.
Total Cost of Ownership: De Havilland Beaver
Annual Scenario: 100 Hours Flying/Year
| Expense Category | Annual Cost | Per Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel (25 GPH @ $5.40/gal) | $13,500 | $135.00 |
| Oil & Misc Variable | $800 | $8.00 |
| Engine Reserve | $2,500 | $25.00 |
| Maintenance Reserve | $2,000 | $20.00 |
| Annual Inspection | $3,000 | $30.00 |
| Insurance | $4,000 | $40.00 |
| Tie-Down/Storage | $1,500 | $15.00 |
| Subscriptions & Misc | $900 | $9.00 |
| TOTAL | $28,200 | $282.00 |
Annual Scenario: 200 Hours Flying/Year
| Expense Category | Annual Cost | Per Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel (25 GPH @ $5.40/gal) | $27,000 | $135.00 |
| Oil & Misc Variable | $1,600 | $8.00 |
| Engine Reserve | $5,000 | $25.00 |
| Maintenance Reserve | $4,000 | $20.00 |
| Annual Inspection | $3,000 | $15.00 |
| Insurance | $4,000 | $20.00 |
| Tie-Down/Storage | $1,500 | $7.50 |
| Subscriptions & Misc | $900 | $4.50 |
| TOTAL | $47,000 | $235.00 |
At 200 annual hours, total ownership costs run approximately $47,000 per year, with per-hour costs dropping to $235. For bush operators conducting regular remote-area operations, per-hour costs can be even lower with 300+ hour annual utilization.
Why Own a De Havilland Beaver?
- Unmatched Capability: Short-field and backcountry performance without peer
- Exceptional Payload: 2,100-2,500 lbs useful load for cargo and passengers
- Proven Reliability: Decades of proven operation in harsh environments
- Versatility: Available in wheel, float, and ski configurations
- Legend Status: The gold standard of bush aircraft worldwide
- Market Demand: Strong resale value and active used market
- Support Infrastructure: Global network of bush pilots and maintenance specialists
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a used De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver cost?
Used De Havilland DHC-2 Piston Beaver aircraft average $300,000-$400,000 depending on engine time, condition, and equipment. The turbocharged DHC-2 Turbo Beaver costs $500,000-$750,000. Modern Viking Air DHC-2-800A variants cost $700,000-$900,000. Pressurized variants and specially equipped examples may cost more.
How much fuel does a De Havilland Beaver burn?
The De Havilland DHC-2 Piston Beaver burns approximately 22-28 gallons per hour depending on power settings and conditions. Turbocharged variants burn similar amounts. This translates to fuel costs of roughly $119-$151 per flight hour at current Avgas prices of $5.40/gallon, making it relatively economical for a bush aircraft.
What is the De Havilland Beaver engine overhaul cost?
De Havilland Beaver piston aircraft use Pratt & Whitney R-985 or Wasp Junior radial engines with 1,200-2,000 hour overhaul intervals. Piston engine overhauls cost $30,000-$50,000. Viking Air turbine variants use PT6A engines with 3,600-hour overhaul intervals costing $300,000+ per engine.
What are annual insurance costs for a Beaver?
Annual insurance for a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver ranges $3,000-$5,000 for piston variants depending on hull value and coverage. Bush aircraft insurance is specialized but generally reasonable. Turbine variants cost significantly more to insure.
What is the total annual cost to own a De Havilland Beaver?
At 100 hours of annual flying, total ownership costs for a piston Beaver average approximately $25,000-$35,000 per year, or $250-$350 per flight hour. Higher utilization dramatically improves economics. At 200+ hours annually, costs approach $200/hour or less.
Is the De Havilland Beaver suitable for bush flying?
Yes, absolutely. The Beaver is arguably the most iconic and proven bush aircraft ever built. Its combination of short-field capability, payload, and reliability makes it ideal for backcountry operations, float plane configuration, and remote area work.
What is the useful load for a De Havilland Beaver?
The De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver has exceptional useful load of approximately 2,100-2,500 pounds depending on variant. This allows carrying seven to nine occupants plus cargo, or substantial equipment for specialized missions.
How does the Beaver compare to other bush aircraft?
The De Havilland Beaver is the gold standard for bush aircraft. It offers superior payload, reliability, and performance compared to similar aircraft. The Cessna 206 and Piper Helio Courier are comparable alternatives but offer less payload. The Beaver is the preferred choice for operators needing maximum capability.
Ready to Own a De Havilland Beaver?
The De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver represents the pinnacle of bush aircraft capability. For operators committed to remote-area work, expedition flying, or demanding backcountry operations, the Beaver delivers unmatched capability and proven reliability.
Use our affordability calculator to evaluate Beaver financing options and explore acquisition strategies for this legendary aircraft.
Sources and Citations
1. Aircraft Cost Calculator - De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver Operating Costs
Detailed operating cost analysis and hourly cost models for piston and turbine variants.
2. Backcountry Pilot - De Havilland Beaver Realistic Operating Costs
Real-world bush operator perspectives on Beaver operating expenses and maintenance.
3. High Sierra Pilots - Cost of Operating Bush Aircraft
Comprehensive analysis of bush aircraft operating economics and financial planning.
4. Plane & Pilot Magazine - De Havilland Beaver Feature
Historic context, operational characteristics, and practical insights on Beaver operation.
5. Viking Air Ltd - DHC-2-800 Modern Beaver Specifications
Factory specifications for modernized Beaver variants and upgrade options.
Note on Pricing and Data: This article reflects market conditions and pricing as of October 2025. Aircraft values, fuel prices, and insurance rates fluctuate based on market conditions. All figures represent typical cases and should be verified with current quotes before making purchase decisions.