How Much Does a Helicopter Weigh?

By Staff WriterLast Updated March 28, 2020

The average transport helicopter can weigh as few as 1,000 pounds and as much as 10,000 pounds. Helicopter weight varies drastically depending on the size of the helicopter, the helicopter’s purpose and the equipment on board. Military or emergency medical helicopters will weigh significantly more than the average, while some passenger helicopters will weigh much less.

The Robinson R22 is one of the lightest helicopters on the market and weighs between 900 and 1,300 pounds. On the other side of the scale, the CH-47D Chinook and UH-60A Blackhawk helicopters weigh 50,000 and 20,000 pounds respectively. The Bell 206L LongRanger, a common rescue and medical helicopter, weighs 3,000 pounds.