For some people, the initial purchase price is the most expensive aspect of owning an airplane,
whereas for others, the operating costs are the most major part. But how cheap can a plane be?
Let's have a look at some of the greatest planes that are not only relatively inexpensive to buy
but also to maintain. I'm only going to tell you about the brand-new prices.
Just keep in mind that you may acquire a used model for less than half the price of a new one.
1 Diamond DA20 Katana
Consider adding wings to your favorite sports car. When you strap into the two-seat
DA20 and take to the skies, you get that feeling. The DA20 is sporty, sleek, and fun,
but it's also surprisingly economical. It delivers great performance, durability, and economy for
commercial training. Diamond aircraft introduced the DA20 in 1992, with a price tag of $279,800.
It uses a 125hp Continental IO-240 engine, with a Sensenich 2 blade fixed pitch propeller in front,
running on AVGAS. This plane comes with a comfortable, sporty cockpit of two seats,
a fighter-like canopy, responsive center-stick pushrod controls, and comfortable bucket seats.
The plane's maximum cruise speed is 130 knots, and it can only stall at 45 knots.
The rate of climb is 830 feet per minute, and it can fly as high as 13,100 feet.
This plane measures 35 ft 9 in wingspan, 7 ft 1 in height, and a length of 23 ft 9 in. The maximum
take-off load is 1,764 lbs, or 800 kg, with a useable fuel capacity of 24 US gal. It is equipped
with the Garmin G500TXi avionics system, which seamlessly integrates with a variety of optional
sensors and datalinks to support the latest weather and traffic monitoring capabilities.
It can also be used as a multiple-display or as a dedicated stand-alone. With all these features,
the plane offers excellent climb and cruise performance,
even at higher density altitudes. Moreover, this aircraft is certified for flying at night VFR.
It is mostly used for flight training because of its good stall and spin characteristics.
It’s also a perfect choice for private flying for those who already have their pilot’s license.
2 Tecnam P2010
The cutting-edge TECNAM P TwentyTen is the world's most advanced high-wing, modern single-engine
aircraft. Balanced controls, unsurpassed stability; this aircraft combines performance
and comfort into a seductive IFR package. Thanks to its smooth design, gently upswept wings,
and sculpted cowling, the TECNAM P2010 cuts through the air with speed, ease, and efficiency.
It was introduced in April 2011, designed and built in Italy. The price is $345,000,
but if you want some extra cool futures like an interior upgrade, a Garmin GFC700 autopilot,
a traffic advisory system, and Stormscope, the price will easily go up to $400,000.
This plane is powered by a Lycoming IO-360 engine that pumps out 180 hp.
The fuel capacity is 63 US gal, and you can carry up to 88 lbs of baggage weight. It climbs
at a rate of 841 feet per minute with a max cruise speed of 137 knots and a stall speed of 52 knots.
The range is 530 nautical miles, and it operates at a maximum altitude of 12,000
ft. This plane measures 25.98 ft in length, with a height of 8.66 ft and a wingspan of 33.79 ft.
It is equipped with the twin-screen G1000 Nxi avionics system, a new flat panel suit with
an integrated GFC 700 autopilot avionics system, which is one of the best out there. This plane is
the best choice for families or professionals due to its precise and easy handling.
3 Cessna 172 Skyhawk Learning to fly is one of
the most liberating experiences one can have. The Cessna SKYHAWK piston is the most popular
single-engine aircraft ever manufactured, earning the title of "ideal training aircraft."
The Cessna Skyhawk piston has a moderate landing speed and a merciful stall thanks to its simple
flight characteristics, excellent visibility, and a sophisticated glass cockpit with GARMIN G1000
avionics. These features make it a popular flight training aircraft, especially for student pilots,
and it's designed to help you soar. It is equipped with a 180 hp Lycoming IO-360 engine with a 2
blade metal propeller. The plane has the simplest flight characteristics, great visibility due to
its high-level wings, and a sophisticated glass cockpit, which is the GARMIN G1000 Nxi avionics
system. It measures 36 ft 1 in wingspan, has a height of 8 ft 11 in, and a length of 27 ft 2 in.
Cruise speed is 124 knots, but if you go on full power, it can fly as fast as 160 knots, with a
service ceiling of 14,000 ft. The stall speed is 48 knots, which is one of the best in its class.
It cost between $369,000 and $438,000 depending on the options you chose.
4 Diamond DA40 NG The DA40, offered with
either jet fuel or an AVGAS engine, is the smart choice whether you are a rookie aviator looking
for the perfect first airplane or an experienced IFR pilot with sophisticated tastes. The DA40 is
a fantastic airplane for travel, leaseback, and training because of its robust composite airframe,
ultra-low fuel burn, and excellent handling. It is one of the newest lines of single-engine
piston light airplanes, and it costs between $389,800 and $494,765, depending on the options.
The plane is powered by an Austro Engine AE300 running on Jet A-1, pumping out 168 hp.
The maximum speed is 154 knots, and it can fly as high as 16,000
ft. With a rate of climb of 649 ft/min, it is not one of the fastest climbing airplanes, but
if you go for the DA40 XLT, which uses a Lycoming engine, you can climb as fast as 910 ft/min.
It has a fuel capacity of 39 US gal, which gives it a maximum range of 940 nautical miles.
The wingspan measures 38 ft 3 inch, height of 6 ft 6 in, and the length of 26 ft 5 in,
which makes it a great glider in the event of an engine failure.
The DA40 is a solid choice among single-engine airplanes with a durable composite airframe,
ultra-low fuel burn, and outstanding handling that make it unique from almost
any other aircraft. And it holds the best safety record among single-engine aircraft.
5 Cirrus SR 20
This plan made its first flight in 1995, in the role of a light aircraft. With its whole
airframe parachute, the SR20 redefined safety in civil aviation. The price for the SR20 starts at
$454,900 and goes up to $554,900 depending on the options you go for.
Some additional features, like air conditioning, Cirrus Global Connect, Hartzell lightweight
carbon composite prop, or Tanis avionics, and engine pre-heater, are installed on demand.
It uses a 215hp Lycoming IO-360 engine, with a 3-blade propeller. The max cruise speed is 155
knots, and the stall speed with flaps is 57 knots, which makes it great for students and new pilots,
and it can fly at a max altitude of 17,500 ft. The wingspan measures 38 ft 4 in., with a height
of 8 ft 11 in, and a length of 26 ft. The flight deck is installed with Cirrus Perspective Plus,
which is basically a Garmin avionics system with 10" screens and an autopilot that
includes electronic stability and protection, dual altitude and heading reference systems,
hypoxia check and automatic descent mode, and autopilot stall protection.
The plane provides a great level of safety with its cirrus airframe parachute system.
6 Tecnam P2006T
The P2006T light twin is a one-of-a-kind product that is both versatile and cost-effective.
With this plane, you get more than a twin for less than a single. It has established itself
as the aircraft of choice for both private owners and the world's most recognized flight training
institutions. It's a favorite among leading general aviation journalists, who commend its
design, handling, and cheap operating expenses. With two engines, a constant-speed propeller,
and retractable gear, this aircraft provides a "complex" training environment
at a fraction of the cost of competitors. It was introduced in 2010, and is unique,
elegant, and one of the few planes in its class to come with retractable landing gear.
It uses the ROTAX 912s3, providing 100 hp each with a two-blade propeller on each side.
The max cruise speed is 145 knots, and the stall speed is 55 knots,
with a maximum altitude level of 14,000 ft. The plane climbs at a rate of 1036 feet per minute,
with a range of 650 nautical miles. The maximum take-off weight is 2717 lbs., which allows 176
pounds of baggage weight and a fuel tank capacity of 52.8 US gal. It measures about 29 ft in length,
with a height of 9 ft 51 inches and a wingspan of 37 ft. Its high wings offer a great level
of visibility and easy access for passengers and luggage, and the aluminum airframe brings
the cost down and makes it relatively easy to maintain. The avionics is the latest G1000 Nxi
IFR avionics technology with an integrated STEC-55 autopilot. The Garmin 800 traffic advisory system
enhances the safety of flight in the Tecnam P2006T. This plane cost around $625,000.
7 Piper Seminole The Seminole is, without a doubt, the best
twin-engine trainer on the market. It outperforms the competition in terms of dependability,
longevity, and value. Thousands of pilots have trained in the Seminole, and this Seminole is
generations ahead with its tried-and-true design, power plants, and handling characteristics.
Other twin-engine trainers exist, but none compares to the Seminole. It is equipped with two
reliable Lycoming IO-360 engines, which produce 180 hp each, with two bladed propellers in front.
The fuel capacity is 108 US gallons, which gives it a maximum range of 700 nautical miles
when flying at a maximum cruise speed of 162 knots. In the cockpit,
you will find the Garmin G1000 NXI avionics suite, which is currently the most successful
avionics system. The interior is designed to give you maximum comfort. The ergonomic seating
keeps the students and the instructors relaxed, allowing them to focus on their flight and lesson.
Air conditioning is available as an option. Even if you are not looking for a trainer,
this plane has great safety features like electronic stability protection,
a blue button for automatic level mode, under-speed protection, and a Go-Around button,
which make it a good personal airplane. You can get the Seminole for around $650,000.
8 Beechcraft G36 Bonanza
If you are looking for unmatched craftsmanship, this piston-engine powerhouse is designed and
built to be certified in the rugged utility category. With first-class technology, comfort,
and world-class quality, this plane is ready for any adventure you might want to embark on.
Power comes from a 300hp Continental IO-550 engine, with 3 bladed propellers in front.
This variant was introduced in 2006 and is the latest variant since 1947.
The price starts at $777,000. Speaking of performance, the maximum climb rate
is 1,230 ft/min, with a cruise speed of 196 knots and a 900 nautical mile range.
The bonanza can carry six occupants and 70 lbs of baggage. Just like many other light planes,
the Bonanza G36 is equipped with the GARMIN G1000 Nxi, which is one of the best out there.
9 Cessna 206 turbo Stationair HD
The turbocharged capability of the STATIONAIR HD is designed to match your mission needs,
whether you're commuting with five people, loading stuff through the two rear cargo doors,
landing on a small dirt airstrip, or splashing in at a remote lake on amphibious floats,
this plane does it for you. The Stationair HD pushes the boundaries of what's possible
and doesn't force you to pick between practicality and comfort—it broadens your horizons so you can
go practically anywhere. It is equipped with the Lycoming TIO-540 engine, which has three-bladed
metal propellers, with an output of 310 hp. The base price of this plane is $747,500,
but to get one fully equipped, it will cost you about $900,000. It has a maximum cruise speed of
161 knots and can only stall at 57 knots, which is particularly great. This plane is equipped
with the latest technology in avionics, the GARMIN G1000Nxi, and the service ceiling is 26,000 feet,
making it one of the highest-flying airplanes in its class. The maximum range is 703 nm.
10 Cirrus SR-22T The SR22T is one of the most beautiful and
safest airplanes out there, primarily because of its whole airframe parachute system. The starting
price is about $750,900, but if you want it fully equipped, you are looking at $850,000 to $1m.
Power comes from a 315hp continental TSIO-550 turbocharged engine,
which helps it to offer a maximum cruise speed of 213 knots and a maximum operating altitude of
25,000 ft. with a 1,021 nm maximum range at 55 % power. The interior is very stylish,
with five seats that have lifestyle comfort and an air-conditioned environment.
The new safety innovative system that includes Electronic Stability and Protection
and the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System provides a wide layer for the pilot and passengers'
safety. The aircraft has a 38 ft 4 in wingspan, a height of 8 ft 11 in, and a length of 26 ft.
The flight deck is equipped with the latest Cirrus Perspective integrated avionics system
with dual flight displays, making you aware of the situation, and a fully digital autopilot system.