PlaneFox tracks 2 Helio Courier aircraft for sale and re-reads every one of them from the broker and dealer sites it watches, so the figures below move when the market moves. Every number on this page is measured from those live listings, not taken from a published price guide.
A Helio Courier flies about 950 nm, roughly 1,759 km, which is about 6 h 47 min in still air at typical cruise.
The Helio Courier is a high wing, fixed gear utility aircraft built by Helio Aircraft Company in the United States. The type first flew in the early 1950s, with main production running from the mid 1950s into the 1970s, followed by limited later production. It was designed for short takeoff and landing work, not as a conventional touring aircraft. Its importance comes from a distinctive aerodynamic package: automatic leading edge slats, large flaps, full span control devices and a robust tailwheel layout that allow controlled low speed operation from confined strips.
Figures vary by variant and engine, but the common H-295 Courier uses a Lycoming GO-480 geared six cylinder engine rated at 295 hp. Typical cruise is around 115 to 125 knots, depending on propeller, tires, rigging and loading. Published range for many piston Courier models is commonly in the 500 to 700 nautical mile class with reserves and operating assumptions. Useful load is often around 1,200 lb, with individual aircraft varying by equipment and modifications. Service ceiling is generally published around 20,000 feet for the higher powered piston versions. The aircraft is better assessed by runway performance, controllability and load carrying from short fields than by cruise speed alone.
The Courier normally seats up to six in a compact utility cabin, with a high wing, good downward visibility and practical access for passengers or cargo. Interiors range from basic working aircraft layouts to refurbished private owner cabins. There was no modern factory integrated glass cockpit comparable to Garmin Perspective or Garmin G1000. Most used examples have analog flight instruments, often supplemented by later avionics such as Garmin GNS or GTN navigators, ADS-B equipment, digital engine monitors and updated audio panels.
Prospective buyers should confirm the exact model and engine installation, since H-391, H-395 and H-295 aircraft differ in power, weights and equipment. Important inspection points include the condition and rigging of slats and flaps, landing gear structure, tailwheel components, corrosion, control cables, fabric covered control surfaces where applicable, and records for the geared Lycoming engine and propeller. Common upgrades include modern radios, GPS navigation, shoulder harnesses, cargo interiors, larger tires and engine monitoring. In the used market, the Helio Courier is a specialized aircraft with limited supply. Values are driven less by cosmetics and more by airframe condition, engine status, documented maintenance and the quality of any STOL related repairs or modifications.