Aircraft overview

The Robin DR300 / DR315 family comprises French, single-engine light aircraft built by Avions Pierre Robin and related Robin production entities. The DR315 Petit Prince appeared in the 1960s, followed by the DR300 series, which was produced mainly through the 1970s. Both are low-wing, fixed-gear, all-wood touring and training aircraft with the characteristic Robin cranked wing derived from Jodel practice. For buyers, the type matters because it offers economical four-seat or 2+2 private flying, good handling qualities and a distinctive European ownership profile, but it also requires informed maintenance of a wooden airframe.

Performance & specifications

Performance depends on variant, propeller and engine condition. The DR315 is commonly associated with the Lycoming O-235 series of about 115 hp, while DR300 variants were offered with engines including O-235 and O-320 installations, typically from about 108 hp to 140 hp. Typical cruise speeds are around 100 to 115 knots, with practical range often in the 400 to 500 nautical mile class when operated with sensible reserves. Service ceiling is generally quoted around the low teens in feet for the more capable variants. Useful load varies materially by equipment, age and national approval, so the individual weight and balance record is more important than a generic brochure figure.

Cabin & avionics

The cabin is simple and compact, usually arranged for four seats, although rear-seat comfort and payload are more suitable for lighter passengers or shorter trips than for full-family touring with baggage. Visibility is good for the class, and the low-wing layout gives familiar handling for pilots moving from other touring aircraft. Original avionics were conventional analogue VFR fits: airspeed, altimeter, engine instruments, VHF radio and transponder. Used examples may now have 8.33 kHz radios, Mode S transponders, portable GPS integration or panel-mounted Garmin GNS, GTN or similar navigators. Integrated glass suites such as Garmin G1000 or Perspective are not typical factory installations for the Robin DR300 / DR315.

Buying & value

Condition matters more than cosmetics. Pre-purchase inspection should focus on wood structure, glue joints, fabric condition, moisture history, corrosion on fittings, landing gear attachment areas, control cables, fuel system condition and engine calendar time. Documentation should confirm approved repairs, weight changes and any avionics or propeller upgrades. Current PlaneFox listing data places the Robin DR300 / DR315 around EUR 43,000 on average, with asking prices roughly from EUR 22,000 to EUR 55,000. In the used market, it sits below newer composite trainers and later DR400 models, appealing to buyers who value low operating costs, classic handling and a well-documented airframe.