How much does a Rotax 916 is cost

So you're looking at the Rotax 916 iS. Yeah, it's the big dog of light aircraft engines. Liquid-cooled, turbocharged, all that fancy stuff. As of early 2025, if you're buying new and straight from the factory, you're looking at somewhere between $55,000 and $65,000 USD. That gets you the engine core itself—the long block—plus the ECU and the turbo system. But here's the thing nobody warns you about: that's just the start. By the time you add in the mandatory bits like the exhaust, the propeller, and shipping, you're looking at a whole different number. Don't get blindsided.

Why is the Rotax 916 iS so expensive compared to other engines?

Honestly? It's the tech inside it. This isn't your grandpa's carbureted Lycoming. The 916 iS runs full electronic fuel injection, dual-channel FADEC that basically manages everything for you, and a liquid-cooled turbocharger that lets you fly high without the engine gasping for air. All that stuff costs money to develop and build. But the payoff is real—better fuel efficiency, more power per pound, and it just feels modern. For builders working on experimental or Light Sport Aircraft, it's kind of the gold standard right now.

What is included in the base price of a Rotax 916 iS?

For that $55k-$65k, you get the engine block, cylinder heads, the FADEC ECU (which is like the brain of the whole operation), sensors, wiring harness, turbocharger, and fuel injection system. That's the core. What you don't get? The exhaust system, intercooler, airbox, radiator, hoses, and the propeller speed reduction unit—the gearbox. Those are often sold separately or as part of a "power pack" kit, and they add up fast. Don't assume the base price covers everything you need to actually fly.

What are the additional costs for a complete Rotax 916 iS installation?

To get this thing actually running and ready for takeoff, you've got to budget for a bunch of extras. Here's a rough breakdown of what you're probably looking at:

• Installation Kit (Exhaust, Intercooler, Airbox): $8,000 - $15,000
• Propeller Speed Reduction Unit (Gearbox): Sometimes it's bundled in, but if it's separate, figure $4,000 - $6,000.
• Radiator & Cooling Hoses: $1,500 - $3,000
• Propeller (Fixed Pitch or Constant Speed): $3,000 - $12,000
• Shipping & Customs (if international): $500 - $2,000
• Installation Labor (if not DIY): $2,000 - $5,000

Rotax 916 iS Cost Breakdown Table

Where can I buy a Rotax 916 iS?

In North America, your best bets are authorized distributors like Leading Edge Air Foils (LEAF), California Power Systems (CPS), and Lockwood Aviation. You can also order straight from Rotax in Austria, but shipping gets pricier. Prices do vary a bit between distributors based on what they've got in stock and the support packages they throw in. Shop around a little.

Is a used Rotax 916 iS available?

Used ones? Good luck. The 916 iS is still pretty new—certified around 2021-2022—so finding a used engine is like finding a unicorn. If you do stumble upon one, expect to pay $45,000 - $55,000. But be careful. These engines need specific maintenance records and often have digital logbooks. If there's no full service history, walk away. The FADEC and turbo system are complex enough that a gamble isn't worth it.

Checklist: Before you buy a Rotax 916 iS

• Budget for the whole package: Don't forget that $73k+ total cost. It's real.
• Confirm compatibility: Check if your airframe (like a Van's RV-14 or Zenith CH 750) has a specific firewall-forward kit.
• Consider the warranty: New engines get a 2-year/500-hour warranty. Used ones? Probably nothing.
• Factor in fuel: The 916 iS runs on premium unleaded automotive gas (MOGAS) or 100LL avgas. Flexibility is nice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)