Sikorsky Schweizer 300CBi Training

The light piston helicopter built for primary flight training

Overview

Sikorsky Helicopter United States 1981–Present $290,000

The Sikorsky Schweizer 300CBi is a light piston-engine helicopter developed primarily for flight training. Known for its stability and straightforward handling, it has served as an entry-level platform for generations of pilots. The aircraft emphasizes simplicity and durability.

Specifications

Units
Engine
1 × Textron Lycoming HIO-360 G1A
Engine type
Piston
Power
180 hp · 134 kW
Avionics
—
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
2
Crew
—
Cabin width
4 ft 11 in  ·  1.50 m
Cabin height
—
Cabin length
4 ft 9 in  ·  1.45 m
Exterior length
30 ft 10 in  ·  9.40 m
Tail height
—
Fuselage diameter
—
Wing span
26 ft 10 in  ·  8.18 m
Baggage volume
—
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
1,750 lb  ·  800 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
650 lb  ·  300 kg
Fuel capacity
60 gal · 200 L · 200 kg (AvGas)
Max cruise speed
80 kt  ·  92 mph  ·  148 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
440 nm  ·  510 mi  ·  810 km
Fuel burn
6.90 nm/gal  ·  3.38 km/L
Ceiling
10,000 ft  ·  3,000 m
Rate of climb
1,000 ft/min  ·  5 m/s
Takeoff distance
—
Landing distance
—
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Operational Context

Sikorsky Schweizer 300CBi — piston-engine primary trainer

The Schweizer 300 series traces its origins to the Hughes 269 of the 1950s. Over decades of refinement, the design evolved under Schweizer Aircraft before later acquisition by Sikorsky. The 300CBi variant represents a modernized training version equipped with updated systems and improved ergonomics.

Powered by a Lycoming piston engine producing around 180 horsepower, the helicopter typically cruises at approximately 85 knots (155 km/h). It has a maximum takeoff weight of about 2,050 pounds (930 kg). The three-blade main rotor system provides stable flight characteristics well suited for hovering and autorotation training.

The 300CBi has been widely used by civilian flight schools and military training programs. Its forgiving flight behavior and mechanical simplicity make it an effective platform for primary rotorcraft instruction. The design remains one of the most recognizable piston trainers in rotary-wing aviation.