The vast majority of non-pilot civilians have no idea how much an airplane costs. Although they may appear out of reach for the average person, many are less expensive than most modern cars. Although much smaller than the massive commercial jets that fly from Tokyo to Los Angeles, these planes are still a lot of fun to learn about and fly. They may also be useful for short-distance travel. They’re thrilling to fly for fun, regardless of their utility. However, there is another side to the coin when it comes to aircraft ownership: those who can afford to buy an airplane and hire a private pilot. In this article, we’ll look at the cheapest airplanes to buy and fly.
Table of Contents
Considerations When Purchasing A Low-Cost Airplane
You don’t walk into a car dealership and purchase the first vehicle you see. You should not buy an airplane unless you have thoroughly researched it. Remember that the costs of owning a plane begin after you buy it. Before you write that check, learn everything you can about the plane.
The Brand
Popular planes are bought not only because they are good, but also because they are in high demand. Even if less popular planes perform well and have low operating costs, reselling them will be expensive due to low demand.
Running Costs and Maintenance
High operating costs can depreciate an aircraft’s value faster than a sack of bricks. A low-cost personal aircraft is distinguished not only by its price. It instead combines low fuel consumption, dependability, and low-cost parts. It is critical to research hangar storage costs for your particular aircraft type.
Parts Availability
This is a deal breaker for us, and it is unrelated to the plane’s age. Some parts for newer planes are difficult to find, whereas spare parts for older planes are abundant. Check with the manufacturer of your aircraft to see if the model’s parts are in stock.
Insurance
Yes, aircraft are covered by insurance. Do you think the insurance costs for the cheapest planes are low? Not all of the time. The insurance company is well aware that the likelihood of something catastrophic going wrong on an older plane is greater than on a newer model. Older planes with proven reliability and safety records, on the other hand, may have lower insurance premiums than newer, less expensive planes.
Condition
Before purchasing an airplane, it seems prudent to learn as much as possible about its previous owners. Deals frequently conceal lemons, and even popular planes with years of hard use can conceal several costly issues. Furthermore, purchasing a used plane and repairing it can cost you tens of thousands of dollars in mechanical and airworthiness certification costs. Purchasing an older but aesthetically pleasing plane with long service history is always a good idea. There are still good deals on cheap planes available; you just have to look.
What Are The Cheapest Airplanes To Buy And Fly
Cirrus SR22
Cirrus is one of the cheapest airplanes to buy. Since 2001, the 7.92-meter-long, four-seat, single-engine light aircraft has been in production. The modern and young Cirrus SR22 series, according to COPA (Cirrus Owners & Pilots Association) and AOPA, is one of the safest single-engine aircraft in general aviation (Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association). The widely available CAPS (Cirrus Airframe Parachute System ®) and onboard computers improve aircraft safety.
The Cirrus SR22 can easily keep up with the other models, with a top speed of 378 km/h. With a base price of around 890.000 Euro and operating costs ranging from 210 to 230 Euro per hour, it is a low-cost aircraft in its class. It is primarily used commercially in the United States, whereas it is mainly used privately and for European fractional ownership models. The Cirrus SR22 is also used for flight training by Emirates.
Cirrus SF50 Vision Jet
Cirrus’ first turbofan-powered aircraft is the Vision Jet. In 2017, Cirrus was awarded the Collier Trophy Prize for developing the Vision Jet. Each year, this award is given to the company that has made the most significant advancements in the field of aerospace. It is the world’s most affordable private jet, with a price tag of approximately 1.25 million Euros. The Cirrus Vision Jet costs approximately 550 Euros per hour to operate.
It is nine meters long and can seat up to five people. The Cirrus Airframe Parachute System is
installed on light aircraft, which weigh only 1620 kilograms. In 2018, Vision Jet was the most delivered jet aircraft in business aviation. Only the second generation of the Vision Jet has been manufactured since 2019, providing increased safety and comfort and a higher peak altitude. In Europe, the aircraft is not currently available for charter, but it is available through fractional ownership models.
Piper Seneca
The Piper Seneca is the next most inexpensive airplane to buy. A small twin-engine aircraft. It’s quick, roomy, and comfortable. Flight schools highly value this model. The plane is rarely used for commercial purposes, but you can rent it without a pilot if you don’t want to buy it. This aircraft has an 8.72-meter length and a cruising speed of 370 km/h. The Piper Seneca (2019 model year) starts at around 655.000 Euro. The Piper Seneca costs about 430 Euros per hour. Consider this plane if you want a high-quality, low-cost plane!
Diamond DA42
The Diamond DA42 is simple to fly and uses the same fuel as a single-engine aircraft. This model costs 630.000 Euros to buy and operates at around 320 Euros per hour. The plane can transport up to four people to their destination at a cruising speed of about 287 km/h. The wrap-around front and large rear windows provide passengers with an exceptional panoramic view.
Cessna 182
The Cessna 182 is a single-engine light aircraft that is widely produced worldwide. The 8.84-meter-long aircraft can seat up to four people and has a top speed of 278 km/h. It is mainly used for sport, travel, training, and surveillance but also to drop paratroopers. This model is also famous for scenic flights. In many countries, the Cessna 182 is also used for military purposes. The aircraft costs only 433.500 Euro and the operating costs per hour for the Cessna 182 range between 150 and 170 Euro. As a result, it is one of the most affordable. So, if you’re looking for one of the cheapest places to buy, this could be the one.
Luscombe Silvaire
The Luscombe Silvaire trails the Cessna 150, at least at the low end of its range. Depending on the model, Silvaires can be purchased for as little as $16,000. They can, however, be found for $24,000 or more. There are three models to choose from, with the most expensive being the 8C, 8E, and 8F. Remember that the 8F is much more expensive than the other two.
The name Silvaire has become synonymous with all 2-seater Luscombe planes, but the first actual Silvaire, the model 8C, was built in 1940. The 8E and 8F have since been built and released, and they are still very popular. Because of its narrow landing gear and responsive controls, this low-cost aircraft is not recommended for inexperienced pilots. However, once mastered, the Silvaire is an excellent plane for the money.
Ercoupe 415-C
This plane will not disappoint you, no matter how much you pay. Of course, to a point. The 415-C is marketed as one of the easiest planes to fly and is an easy choice for anyone looking to buy their first plane. Because there are no rudders on this plane, all you need to steer is the yoke, just like driving a car. These pilot-friendly planes are cheap to buy, easy to fly, and offer an experience that few other planes can match. Buy one now for less than $20,000.
Piper Cherokee 140
The Piper Cherokee 140 is an excellent low-wing plane that competes directly with the Cessna 150. It is still competing with Cessna in terms of popularity and price nearly 60 years after its release. A Cherokee 140 will earn between $20,000 and $22,000. The Cherokee 140 comes in two and four-seater versions, with larger models typically rounding out the upper price range. This plane is well-known for its dependability, low operating costs, and ease of use.
Aeronca Champ
With an average price of around $22,000 to $24,000, the Aeronca Champ, at the tail end of the first half of this list, is the 5th cheapest plane to buy. The Aeronca Champ, a direct competitor to the J-3 Cub, is now not only less expensive, but many consider it to be a better plane. Unlike most planes in this class, the Champ has tandem seating, which offers a unique seating experience. The J-3 performs similarly, but the offset seating of the Champ allows for better visibility and easier taxiing. The Champ is the most affordable option on the market if you want to own a high-wing plane.
Cessna 150
It is the cheapest plane in the world. It’s ideal for first-time pilots who want to learn to fly in a simple aircraft. The Cessna 150 is a single-engine plane capable of reaching speeds of 124 miles per hour. It also has a 350-mile range and a service ceiling of 15,300 feet.
Beechcraft Skipper
The Beechcraft Skipper is extremely popular among aviation enthusiasts and pilots alike, but in the grand scheme of things, it is relatively unknown. This is because only about 300 Skippers were ever produced, making them somewhat difficult to find. That’s why finding one for less than $25,000 is so unusual. And, let’s face it, there isn’t a more user-friendly plane in this price range.
Although the Skipper was designed as a training aircraft, flight schools and pilot instructors quickly dismissed it as a viable training option. Because the plane was fantastic, not because it was bad. The Skipper’s sturdy design made it extremely stable, allowing for easier flying and landing than flight schools preferred. The angled nose increased visibility while decreasing pilot stress. As a result, the Skipper was phased out because flight schools no longer wanted to use them. The Beechcraft Skipper, on the other hand, is an excellent recreational plane.
Stinson 108
The 108 is known more for its dependability, durability, and versatility than for its elegant appearance, which earned it international acclaim. Its distinctive fuselage shape and high-wing design have earned it a cult following, but that following has kept the 108s in pristine condition over the years. These planes were built between 1946 and 1950, so any you come across will be at least 70 years old. But don’t let that deter you. Over the years, Stinson enthusiasts have kept these vehicles well-maintained and updated, with new engines, sheet metal shells, and other components. The price range can be all over the place due to the niche following and changes over time. The price of a good Stinson 108 should be between $28,000 and $40,000.
Bush Planes – Cheapest Airplanes To Buy And Fly
Kitfox – Series 7
Kitfox is the most well-known kit bush plane manufacturer in the United States. It is a steel-tubing experimental aircraft with a fabric fuselage and wing. It is typically outfitted with Alaskan bushwheels and foldable wings, allowing it to be stored in a standard garage. The cruise speed varies between 80 and 100 knots, depending on the wing option (STI or standard), engine, and tyres chosen. The rate of ascent will be between 1000 and 1800 feet per minute. The length of the ground roll is 45-80 meters. The maximum take-off weight (MTOW) is 600 kg, with a typical empty weight of less than 300 kg. The STI wing has a stall speed of 32 knots. The basic firewall back kit will set you back around €30,000. The engine, mount, and prop for the Rotax 912 ULS cost €26,000. Wheels and other accessories will cost an additional €13,500, and instruments will cost an additional €15,000. The total cost is approximately €84,500 with a build time of 1000 hours.
Just Aircraft – Superstol
Only planes are permitted. In the United States, planes are designed to fly slower and land faster than a typical bush plane. The rugged hydraulic suspension and 29″ Alaskan bushwheels, designed to withstand a lot of abuse, are the first things you notice about the aircraft. The aircraft is distinguished from most bush planes by its all-metal wing with self-deploying leading edge slats, which allows it to land at a low speed of 28 knots. The empty weight of the Rotax 912 ULS is typically less than 300 kg. The MTOW of the aircraft is 600 kg. Folding wings are also used in planes like the Kitfox. The superstol is based on the Highlander airframe and features the specialized wing described above. The Firewall back kit costs around €41,000, while a Rotax 912 ULS engine, prop, exhaust, and cowling cost €29,000. Avionics are typically around €15,000, with Alaskan Bushwheels costing €3000. There are three quick-build options for the wings, ranging from €1500 to €5500. Expect to pay an additional €5,000 for nice extras.
The total cost of construction would be around €88,000, or €99,000 with the quick build wing and extras. The construction time is also close to 1000 hours.
Aeropro – Eurofox
The Eurofox is a Slovakian ultralight that was designed and built. The plane looks similar to the Kitfox, but it is slightly smaller. (62 cm shorter wingspan, 30 cm shorter length, 2cm wider cabin) steel tubing frame covered in fabric. The Eurofox has an MTOW of 560 kg, which is 40 kg less than the Kitfox. The Eurofox has a weight limit of 100 kg for passengers. Like the Kitfox, the Eurofox is available with either a nose wheel or a tailwheel. For the taildragger version, Eurofox only offers aluminum spring gear, whereas Kitfox offers Cabane V gear as an option (more rugged). The Eurofox is less expensive. It is manufactured in a factory and costs around €80,000, making it an excellent value. A few extras and fancier avionics may raise the price by another €10,000, but it’s still less than half the price of a factory-built Kitfox. Eurofox is marketed as Aerotrek in the United States, and while nearly identical, is sold at a higher price point.
Rans – S21 Outbound
The S21 Outbound is an all-metal taildragger built in the United States, like the Just Aircraft Superstol. It is faster than the Superstol and the other planes on this list due to its more aerodynamic design (105 knots with standard 100 hp Rotax 912 ULS). The all-metal construction makes it heavy, with an empty weight of 371 kg when equipped with the Rotax 912ULS; other engine options include the 140 hp Rotax 915iS and 180 hp Titan x340, which provide significant increases in cruise speed (126 knots, 136 knots) and climb (1400 fpm, 1500 fpm). The plane will be able to fly at 820 kg MTOW with a useful load of 385 kg thanks to these engines. The take-off and landing rollout distances of 106 meters aren’t particularly impressive, but that’s the price of flying fast.
Without instruments or an engine, the base kit aircraft costs €30,000. According to the manufacturer, the aircraft could cost around €100,000 in total, with the build taking approximately 500 hours.
FAQs
Which is the cheapest plane to buy?
The Cessna 150 is the least expensive plane on the market. It’s ideal for first-time pilots who want to learn to fly in a simple aircraft. The Cessna 150 is a single-engine plane capable of reaching speeds of 124 miles per hour. It also has a 350-mile range and a service ceiling of 15,300 feet.
How much does the cheapest aircraft cost?
The cheapest ultralight aircraft is the option we have. These are single-engine personal planes with a single seat. Typically, a new ultralight aircraft costs between $8000 and $15,000. Single-engine planes typically cost between $15,000 and $100,000.
How much is a 2-seater plane?
The NAL stated that the basic version of the aircraft would cost around Rs 80 lakh, while the fully loaded version would cost around Rs one crore. The two-seater plane can also be used for bird reconnaissance at airfields, cadet training, coastal surveillance, and hobby flying in the country, according to the company.
Is it cheaper to fly your own plane?
The length of the trip will determine whether or not you save money by flying yourself. Short and medium-length flights are usually less expensive, and day trips are almost always less expensive when you fly yourself, especially if you have a lot of time.
How much do pilots earn?
An entry-level airline pilot’s starting salary (with 1-3 years of experience) is Rs 1,847,321. A senior-level airline pilot (8+ years of experience) earns an average of Rs 3,307,868. The data was obtained from ERI’s Salary Expert Database.
How much does a pilot license cost?
Several expenses will be incurred to obtain your private pilot license. However, the total cost of a private pilot license will range between $10,000 and $20,000 depending on where you attend flight school. The majority of your costs will be related to completing your training hours.
How much is airplane fuel cost?
Jet fuel can cost more than $7.00 per gallon in countries such as the United States, depending on the type (Jet A, Jet A1, Jet B, TS-1).
What is the safest private plane?
Top eight safest private planes:
- Cessna Citation 680 Sovereign.
- Dassault Falcon 2000.
- Bombardier Challenger 300.
- Bombardier Global.
- Gulfstream G650.
- Dassault Falcon 900.
- Airbus Corporate Jet.
- Embraer Phenom 300.
How much does a Cessna 172 cost?
On average, a new Cessna 172 Skyhawk costs between $370,000 and $425,000. The price, however, varies according to the year, model, and location of purchase.
What does it cost to own a plane?
You can save a lot of money by buying used, which starts around $30,000 with a few hours on it, but if you want the brand-new, never-used-before feel, you’ll have to pay $274,900.
What is the best private plane to own?
The best private planes to own:
- Cirrus Vision SF50
- Eclipse 550.
- Pilatus PC-12 NG
- Embraer Phantom 100
- Beechcraft King Air 350i
- Learjet 70
- Dassault Falcon 7X
- Gulfstream G650
What is the cheapest commercial airplane?
The Douglas DC 3 is the world’s cheapest plane. In 1935, it took to the skies for the first time. Yes, it is still operational! During WWII, it was also used as a warplane! The strength and flexibility of DC 3 are legendary. Other planes serve similar functions, but none compare to the DC 3. It was $79,500 at the time, which is roughly $1.5 million today.