The de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver is the legendary bush plane — a rugged, radial-engine STOL workhorse that defined backcountry and float flying and remains treasured decades after production ended.
Key takeaways
- Legendary bush plane: the definitive backcountry workhorse.
- Radial power and STOL capability on wheels or floats.
- Strong values and specialty ownership.
About the de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver
The Beaver is a rugged, high-wing STOL airplane with a Pratt & Whitney radial (many now turbine-converted), prized for backcountry and float operations. Radial or turbine conversion, corrosion, and provenance drive value; strong demand keeps prices high. A type-experienced pre-buy is essential.
| Specification | de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver |
|---|---|
| Type | STOL bush plane (radial or turbine) |
| Engine | Pratt & Whitney R-985 radial (or turbine conversion) |
| Cruise | ~120 knots |
Typical used price (2026): ~$300,000–$800,000. Condition, avionics, and engine time drive value within that range.
Is the de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver Right for You?
The de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver on floats suits owners who want water flying — lakes, rivers, and coastlines that wheeled airplanes can't reach. Float and amphibious operations add a seaplane rating requirement, corrosion diligence, and mission-specific insurance to the ownership picture.
Ownership & Operating Costs
- Fuel: moderate to high depending on the airframe.
- Insurance: seaplane premiums, tied to your seaplane rating and water time.
- Corrosion: rinse after saltwater operations and inspect diligently.
- Gear & hull: budget for float and hull maintenance.
For a full framework across models, see our aircraft ownership cost guide.
What to Check When Buying
Corrosion is the defining concern on any water-operated airframe — use a type-experienced inspector, review the hull and corrosion history, and confirm proper rinsing and maintenance. Document the float installation and STCs.
Financing a de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver
A de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver on floats finances as a piston single, but water operations shape insurance and a niche resale market can mean a slightly larger down payment; corrosion-free condition matters most. Jaken Aviation is a brokerage, not a lender — we shop your loan across a national network of aviation lenders.
Prices, specifications, and financing figures are illustrative for the 2026 market and are not offers of credit. Jaken Aviation is a licensed aircraft financing brokerage — a division of Jaken Finance Group — and does not make loan decisions. All financing is subject to lender approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a seaplane rating for the de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver?
For water operations, effectively yes — a single-engine sea rating and water experience are central to insurability and premiums.
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