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Key Takeaways
- The best overall small plane you can buy right now: Cirrus SR22.
- Understanding small planes and their best uses is crucial when choosing the right one.
- Small planes can range from under $100,000 to well over $1 million.
Whether you're a seasoned pilot or a beginner, there's a small plane out there that's perfect for you - even if your budget is small!
The best small planes you can buy right now are:
- Best Overall: Cirrus SR22
- Best Budget: Cessna 172
- Best for Aerobatics: Extra 330LT
- Best for Short Takeoff and Landing: Pilatus PC-12 NGX
- Best for Long Range: Gulfstream G650ER
- Best for Multi-Mission: Beechcraft King Air 350i
- Best for Fuel Efficiency: Cirrus Vision SF50
As an experienced pilot and aviation enthusiast, I've had the opportunity to fly many different types of small planes. I've researched and tested a wide variety of models to bring you the best options available. Whether you're looking for a small plane for personal use, business travel, or just for fun, I've got you covered. So sit back, relax, and let's explore the best small planes you can buy right now.
Understanding Small Planes
As an aviation enthusiast, I've always been fascinated by the world of small planes. These single-engine or twin-engine piston aircraft, turboprop aircraft, light jets, and other personal aircraft are perfect for those who want to experience the thrill of flying without the hassle of commercial flights. In this section, I will provide an overview of small planes and their features.
Intended Use
Small planes, also known as light-sport aircraft, are designed for personal or recreational use, with seating capacity usually ranging from one to six passengers.
They are typically used for short trips, sightseeing, and flying lessons. Small planes are more affordable than larger aircraft and are easier to maintain and operate.
Avionics
Modern avionics have made flying small planes easier and safer than ever before. These systems include GPS navigation, weather radar, and collision avoidance technology. Piloting a small plane requires skill and training, but it can be a rewarding experience.
Engine Type
Single-engine airplanes are the most common type of small plane. They are powered by a single piston engine and can reach speeds of up to 200 miles per hour.
Twin turbocharged piston engine aircraft are larger and faster than single-engine planes. They are more expensive to operate and maintain, but they offer increased safety and reliability.
Turboprop aircraft are powered by a turbine engine and are faster and more powerful than piston aircraft. They are used for short to medium-range flights and are popular among business travelers. Light jets are small, fast, and efficient. They are used for short to medium-range flights and can carry up to eight passengers.
Top 7 Small Planes You Can Buy Right Now
1. Best Overall: Cirrus SR22 ($800,000)
The Cirrus SR22 is a high-performance single-engine aircraft that offers a comfortable and spacious cabin, advanced avionics, and impressive safety features. It is equipped with a full-airframe parachute system, which can be deployed in case of an emergency.
The plane’s specifications include a maximum cruise speed of 183 knots, a range of 1,049 nautical miles, and a service ceiling of 17,500 feet. The price of the Cirrus SR22 starts at around $800,000.
Specifications
- Engine: Continental IO-550-N, 310 horsepower
- Wingspan: 38 feet, 4 inches
- Length: 26 feet
- Maximum Takeoff Weight: 3,600 pounds
- Fuel Capacity: 81 gallons
- Seating Capacity: 4
Performance
The Cirrus SR22 is known for its exceptional performance. It has a maximum cruise speed of 183 knots and a range of 1,049 nautical miles, making it an ideal choice for long-distance flights.
This private jet is also equipped with advanced avionics, including a Garmin Perspective+ flight deck and a digital autopilot system.
What Sets This Plane Apart
The Cirrus SR22 is unique in its safety features, including the Cirrus full plane parachute, which can deploy in case of an emergency. The plane’s advanced avionics and spacious cabin also set it apart from other small planes in its class.
Recent Updates
In 2020, Cirrus Aircraft introduced the G6 version of the SR22, which includes several upgrades, such as a new interior design, improved performance, and enhanced safety features.
Benefits
- Advanced avionics and safety features
- Spacious and comfortable cabin
- High-performance engine and impressive range
Drawbacks
- High price point compared to other small planes
- Limited seating capacity
Who Should Buy This Plane?
The Cirrus SR22 is an ideal choice for pilots who prioritize safety, performance, and comfort. It is a great option for long-distance flights and can handle a variety of weather conditions.
Where to Buy This Plane
Cirrus Aircraft offers the SR22 for sale through their website and authorized dealers.
2. Best Budget: Cessna 172 ($350,000)
The Cessna 172 is a four-seat, single-engine, very light jet private that has been in production since the 1950s, making it one of the most popular and reliable planes in the world.
It has a maximum cruising speed of 124 knots and a range of 640 nautical miles. The price of the Cessna 172 starts at around $350,000.
Specifications
- Engine: Lycoming IO-360-L2A, 160 horsepower
- Wingspan: 36 feet, 1 inch
- Length: 27 feet, 2 inches
- Maximum Takeoff Weight: 2,550 pounds
- Fuel Capacity: 56 gallons
- Seating Capacity: 4
Performance
The Cessna 172 is known for its reliability and ease of use. It has a maximum cruise speed of 124 knots and a range of 640 nautical miles, making it a great option for short to medium-distance flights.
The plane is also equipped with basic avionics, including a Garmin G1000 flight deck.
What Sets This Plane Apart
This light aircraft is unique in its affordability and reliability. It has been in production for over 60 years and has a proven track record of safety and performance. It is also easy to fly and maintain, making it a popular choice for flight schools and private owners alike.
Recent Updates
In 2020, Textron Aviation, the parent company of Cessna, introduced the Skyhawk G1000 NXi, which includes several upgrades, such as a new digital flight deck, improved performance, and enhanced safety features.
Benefits
- Affordable price point compared to other small planes
- Proven track record of safety and reliability
- Easy to fly and maintain
Drawbacks
- Basic avionics compared to other small planes
- Limited range compared to other small planes
Who Should Buy This Plane?
The Cessna 172 is an ideal choice for pilots who prioritize affordability, reliability, and ease of use. It is a great option for short to medium-distance flights and is popular among flight schools and private owners.
Where to Buy This Plane
Cessna offers the 172 for sale through their website and authorized dealers.
3. Best for Aerobatics: Extra 330LT ($450,000)
The Extra 330LT is a high-performance, two-seat aircraft designed for aerobatics and airshows. It has a maximum cruise speed of 220 knots and a range of 1,000 nautical miles.
The plane’s specifications include a Lycoming AEIO-580-B1A engine, which delivers 315 horsepower. The price of the Extra 330LT starts at around $450,000.
Specifications
- Engine: Lycoming AEIO-580-B1A, 315 horsepower
- Wingspan: 26 feet, 3 inches
- Length: 23 feet, 11 inches
- Maximum Takeoff Weight: 2,095 pounds
- Fuel Capacity: 50 gallons
- Seating Capacity: 2
Performance
The Extra 330LT is known for its exceptional performance in aerobatics and airshows. It has a maximum cruise speed of 220 knots and a range of 1,000 nautical miles. The private aircraft is also equipped with advanced avionics, including a Garmin G3X flight deck.
What Sets This Plane Apart
The Extra 330LT is unique in its ability to perform advanced aerobatics and stunts. It is designed specifically for airshows and is capable of performing maneuvers such as loops, rolls, and spins with ease.
The plane’s high-performance engine and advanced avionics also set it apart from other small planes in its class.
Recent Updates
In 2021, Extra Aircraft introduced the Extra NG, which includes several upgrades, such as a new digital flight deck, improved performance, and enhanced safety features.
Benefits
- Exceptional performance in aerobatics and airshows
- High-performance engine and advanced avionics
- Spacious and comfortable cockpit
Drawbacks
- High price point compared to other small planes
- Limited range compared to other small planes
Who Should Buy This Plane?
The Extra 330LT is an ideal choice for pilots who specialize in aerobatics and airshows. It is also a great option for pilots who want a high-performance plane with advanced avionics and a spacious cockpit.
Where to Buy This Plane
Extra Aircraft offers the 330LT for sale through their website and authorized dealers.
4. Best for Short Takeoff and Landing: Pilatus PC-12 NGX ($5.4 million)
The Pilatus PC-12 NGX is a versatile, single-engine aircraft that is designed for short takeoff and landing operations.
It has a maximum cruise speed of 290 knots and a range of 1,800 nautical miles. The plane’s specifications include a Pratt & Whitney PT6E-67XP engine, which delivers 1,825 horsepower. The price of the Pilatus PC-12 NGX starts at around $5.4 million.
Specifications
- Engine: Pratt & Whitney PT6E-67XP, 1,825 horsepower
- Wingspan: 53 feet, 3 inches
- Length: 47 feet, 3 inches
- Maximum Takeoff Weight: 10,450 pounds
- Fuel Capacity: 402 gallons
- Seating Capacity: 9-11
Performance
The Pilatus PC-12 NGX is known for its exceptional performance in short takeoff and landing gear operations.
It has a maximum cruise speed of 290 knots and a range of 1,800 nautical miles, making it an ideal choice for regional flights. The plane is also equipped with advanced avionics, including a Honeywell Primus Epic flight deck.
What Sets This Plane Apart
The Pilatus PC-12 NGX is unique in its ability to operate in a variety of environments, including short and unpaved runways.
It is also known for its spacious and comfortable cabin, which can accommodate up to 11 passengers. The plane’s advanced avionics and high-performance engine also set it apart from other small planes in its class.
Recent Updates
In 2020, Pilatus Aircraft introduced the PC-12 NGX, which includes several upgrades, such as a new digital flight deck, improved performance, and enhanced safety features.
Benefits
- Exceptional performance in short takeoff and landing operations
- Spacious and comfortable cabin
- Advanced avionics and high-performance engine
Drawbacks
- High price point compared to other small planes
- Limited seating capacity compared to other small planes
Who Should Buy This Plane?
The Pilatus PC-12 NGX is an ideal choice for pilots who prioritize versatility, performance, and comfort. It is a great option for regional flights and can handle a variety of environments, including short and unpaved runways.
Where to Buy This Plane
Pilatus Aircraft offers the PC-12 NGX for sale through their website.
5. Best for Long Range: Gulfstream G650ER ($70 Million)
The Gulfstream G650ER is a high-performance, twin-engine aircraft designed for long-range flights. It has a maximum cruise speed of 610 knots and a range of 7,500 nautical miles.
The plane’s specifications include two Rolls-Royce BR725 engines, which deliver a combined 32,600 pounds of thrust, as well as a pressurized cabin. The price of the Gulfstream G650ER starts at around $70 million.
Specifications
- Engines: Two Rolls-Royce BR725, 16,350 pounds of thrust each
- Wingspan: 99 feet, 7 inches
- Length: 102 feet, 10 inches
- Maximum Takeoff Weight: 103,000 pounds
- Fuel Capacity: 48,600 pounds
- Seating Capacity: 11-18
Performance
The Gulfstream G650ER is known for its exceptional performance in long-range flights. It has a maximum cruise speed of 610 knots and a range of 7,500 nautical miles, making it a great option for intercontinental flights.
The plane is also equipped with advanced avionics, including a Gulfstream PlaneView flight deck.
What Sets This Plane Apart
The Gulfstream G650ER is unique in its ability to fly nonstop between almost any two points on the globe. It is also known for its luxurious and spacious cabin, which can accommodate up to 18 passengers.
The plane’s advanced avionics and high-performance engines also set it apart from other small planes in its class. Keep in mind that you will need a flight crew to operate this aircraft.
Recent Updates
In 2020, Gulfstream Aerospace introduced the G700, which includes several upgrades, such as a new digital flight deck, improved performance, and enhanced safety features.
Benefits
- Exceptional performance in long-range flights
- Luxurious and spacious cabin
- Advanced avionics and high-performance engines
Drawbacks
- Extremely high price point compared to other small planes
- Limited accessibility to smaller airports
Who Should Buy This Plane?
The Gulfstream G650ER is an ideal choice for pilots who prioritize luxury, performance, and range.
It is a great option for intercontinental flights and can fly nonstop between almost any two points on the globe.
Where to Buy This Plane
Gulfstream Aerospace offers the G650ER for sale through their website and authorized dealers.
6. Best for Multi-Mission: Beechcraft King Air 350i ($8.7 Million)
The Beechcraft King Air 350i is a versatile, twin-engine aircraft that is designed for multi-mission operations. This is the only twin engine jet to make it onto our list and there is a reason for it!
It has a maximum cruise speed of 312 knots and a range of 1,806 nautical miles. The plane’s specifications include two Pratt & Whitney PT6A-60A engines, which deliver a combined 1,050 horsepower. The price of the Beechcraft King Air 350i starts at around $8.7 million.
Specifications
- Engines: Two Pratt & Whitney PT6A-60A, 1,050 horsepower combined
- Wingspan: 57 feet, 11 inches
- Length: 46 feet, 8 inches
- Maximum Takeoff Weight: 16,500 pounds
- Fuel Capacity: 3,611 pounds
- Seating Capacity: 8-11
Performance
The Beechcraft King Air 350i is known for its exceptional performance in multi-mission operations.
It has a maximum cruise speed of 312 knots and a range of 1,806 nautical miles, making it a great option for a variety of missions. The plane is also equipped with advanced avionics, including a Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion flight deck.
What Sets This Plane Apart
The Beechcraft King Air 350i is unique in its versatility and adaptability. It can be configured for a variety of missions, including executive transport, air ambulance, surveillance, and more.
The plane’s advanced avionics and high-performance engines also set it apart from other small planes in its class.
Recent Updates
In 2020, Beechcraft introduced the King Air 360, which includes several upgrades, such as a new digital flight deck, improved performance, and enhanced safety features.
Benefits
- Exceptional performance in multi-mission operations
- Versatile and adaptable configuration options
- Advanced avionics and high-performance engines
Drawbacks
- High price point compared to other small planes
- Limited seating capacity compared to other small planes
Who Should Buy This Plane?
The Beechcraft King Air 350i is an ideal choice for pilots who prioritize versatility, performance, and adaptability.
It is a great option for a variety of missions, including executive transport, air ambulance, surveillance, and more.
Where to Buy This Plane
Beechcraft offers the King Air 350i on their website or through authorized dealers.
7. Best for Fuel Efficiency: Cirrus Vision SF50 ($2.4 Million)
The Cirrus Vision SF50 is a single engine plane designed for fuel efficiency. It has a maximum cruise speed of 300 knots and a range of 1,200 nautical miles.
The plane’s specifications include a Williams FJ33-5A turbofan engine, which delivers 1,846 pounds of thrust. The price of the Cirrus Vision SF50 starts at around $2.4 million.
Specifications
- Engine: Williams FJ33-5A, 1,846 pounds of thrust
- Wingspan: 38 feet, 7 inches
- Length: 30 feet, 7 inches
- Maximum Takeoff Weight: 6,000 pounds
- Fuel Capacity: 296 gallons
- Seating Capacity: 5
Performance
The Cirrus Vision jet is known for its exceptional fuel efficiency. It has a maximum cruise speed of 300 knots and a range of 1,200 nautical miles, making it an ideal choice for shorter regional flights.
The personal jet is also equipped with advanced avionics, including a Garmin Perspective+ flight deck.
What Sets This Plane Apart
The Cirrus Vision SF50 is unique in its focus on fuel efficiency and sustainability. It is also known for its advanced safety features, including a Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS) that can deploy in the event of an emergency.
The plane’s advanced avionics and modern design also set it apart from other small planes in its class.
Recent Updates
In 2019, Cirrus Aircraft introduced the Vision Jet G2, which includes several upgrades, such as a new digital flight deck, improved performance, and enhanced safety features.
Benefits
- Exceptional fuel efficiency and sustainability
- Advanced safety features, including a Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS)
- Advanced avionics and modern design
Drawbacks
- Limited seating capacity compared to other small private jets
- Limited range compared to other small planes
Who Should Buy This Plane?
The Cirrus Vision SF50 is an ideal choice for pilots who prioritize fuel efficiency, sustainability, and safety. It is a great option for shorter regional flights and can accommodate up to 5 passengers.
Where to Buy This Plane
Cirrus Aircraft offers the Vision SF50 for sale through their website and authorized dealers.
Best Small Planes for Fuel Efficiency
As a researcher, I was interested in finding out which small planes are the most fuel-efficient in the market. I conducted a comparative analysis of the fuel efficiency of the best small planes available in the market, and the results were quite interesting.
The bottom line is if you are wondering what is the best small plane to buy, fuel efficiency is a characteristic you should not overlook.
Cirrus Vision SF50
According to my findings, the Cirrus Vision SF50 is the most fuel-efficient small plane available in the market. It has a maximum cruise speed of 300 knots and a range of 1,200 nautical miles, making it an ideal choice for shorter regional flights. The plane’s specifications include a Williams FJ33-5A turbofan engine, which delivers 1,846 pounds of thrust. The price of the Cirrus Vision SF50 starts at around $2.4 million.
HondaJet Elite
Another small plane that stood out in terms of fuel efficiency was the HondaJet Elite. It has a maximum cruise speed of 422 knots and a range of 1,437 nautical miles.
The plane’s specifications include two GE Honda HF120 turbofan engines, which deliver 2,050 pounds of thrust each. The price of the HondaJet Elite starts at around $5.25 million.
These findings are important for anyone looking to purchase a small private plane, as fuel efficiency is a key consideration for many buyers. By choosing a more fuel-efficient plane, buyers can save money on fuel costs and reduce their carbon footprint.
In addition, aviators interested in buying personal plane should make sure they are familiarized with enhanced and synthetic vision in avionics. Proper route planning can ultimately be key for ensuring fuel efficiency.
