Robin Dr400

Single Piston

The Robin DR 400 is a French four-seat touring aircraft distinguished by its unusual cranked-wing design (a forward-swept center section meeting straight outer panels) that provides exceptional visibility and docile handling. Built by Centre Est Aéronautique (later Avions Pierre Robin, now Robin Aircraft) since 1972, the DR 400 family evolved from the all-wood Jodel designs of the 1960s into a composite wood-and-fabric construction that remains in production today. The series spans multiple engine options from 125 to 180 horsepower, with the 180hp Regent being the most popular variant for touring and flight training across Europe. What sets the DR 400 apart from American contemporaries like the Cessna 172 or Piper Cherokee is its sliding canopy, side-by-side front seating with excellent outward vision, and spirited handling that appeals to pilots seeking a more engaging flying experience. The type cruises around 130 knots on 9 gallons per hour, offering respectable cross-country performance with a range exceeding 600 nautical miles. Its wood-composite airframe requires careful moisture management but rewards owners with lower acquisition costs than all-metal designs. The DR 400 remains a staple of European flying clubs and private ownership, particularly in France where it serves as a primary trainer and weekend tourer. SkyMeter has tracked 1,727 flights across 224 airframes and 1 operators, covering routes.