Best Planes for Beginner Pilots

Summer is indeed one of the best seasons for pilots. During the sunny warm days, you can fly away to any place you like with full visibility. You probably must never have thought of owning a personal airplane, but that certainly can be made true. But we have picked up some of the most affordable and easy-to-operate planes for beginner pilots that you can easily own.

There are multiple aircraft that will cost you much less than an average car. Owning a private jet or any private aircraft means you can escape the road and fly freely.

Some can be small in size, but they provide a better flying experience and a decent velocity. Here are a few listed aircrafts that you can either own or fly.

Table of Contents

What Makes A Plane Easy To Fly?

Prior we discuss the endless list of airplanes that are the easiest to fly, let’s focus on the fact that the entire idea of easily flying an airplane is nothing but subjective. Everyone might have a different viewpoint regarding this. 

Planes For Beginner Pilots

Yes, there are certain traits that most pilots and designers will look for and make efforts to include on an airplane that is easy and smooth to fly for any beginner pilot. But here comes the twist because we are all different, and our perceptions of easy flying an aircraft can also be different. 

As a beginner pilot, if you are looking for an easy and handy aircraft, you must always go for aircraft that have been used as easy-to-fly aircraft. The flight instructors don’t want these beginning aircraft to be so easy and handy that the pilot almost learns nothing, and the aircraft flies by itself. 

You should know that if the manufacturer is marketing the aircraft with the tags that guarantee them being “trainer aircraft,” then assume that these aircraft are manufactured with the natural focus on providing easy-to-handle features for beginner pilots. Thus, it’s excellent for beginner pilots who require handy aircraft.

While hunting for the easiest and simplest flying planes, certain points must be considered. We primarily need to focus on single-engine planes that will be easier to fly. Below are a few criteria that need to be kept in mind.

  • Stability
  • Smooth handling
  • High level of error forgiveness
  • Automated engines

What Is The Easiest Plane To Fly?

When beginner pilots try their hands on an aircraft, opting for something easy to handle is always advisable. Cessna 172 is considered the easiest plane to fly in the world. If you think the best way to learn to fly a plane is by choosing an aircraft that’s as hard as holding your feet on fire, then you are probably wrong. If you begin your journey with an easy-to-handle aircraft, you’ll adapt to flying much quicker. 

Hunting for an easy to fly plane can be tricky at times. Though the topic may be a bit subjective, we can still claim that most experienced pilots will have the same view just like us. According to a survey, Cessna 172 is one of the easiest flying planes that exists on this planet.

Cessna 172 Skyhawk is largely recognized as the easiest flying plane. Various reasons are considered to make Cessna 172 the easy-to-fly plane. But here, we will delve deeper into a few of the most compelling reasons that make Cessna top the list. Some of the recognizable features of Cessna are its high wing configuration, super dynamic engine, large cockpits, and automatic controls. 

Those who spent decades in the cockpit attest that Cessna is the easiest-to-fly plane. Another important reason that makes Skyhawk so famous amongst both old and new pilots. 

List of a Few Easy-to-Fly Planes for Beginner Pilots

Here we have listed a few of the easy to fly planes that are an absolute lookout for learners. 

  • Cessna 172 Skyhawk
  • Cessna 150/152
  • Diamond DV20/BA 20 Katana
  • Ercoupe 415-C
  • Beechcraft Skipper
  • Piper PA-28 Cherokee

All of these above-listed planes for beginner pilots are single-engine aircraft that come at an easy-to-buy, affordable price. Fighter jets or commercial planes are not included in this list because they are not easy to fly and need significant training. 

Now that you can already see that Cessna has topped the list. Let’s quickly review the factors that make Cessna the easiest to fly. 

Wing configuration: Cessna

One of the key reasons that make Cessna easy to fly is its high wig configuration. There are various kinds of wings and configurations, all of which have their good and bad sides. But usually, there are two types of configurations them being 

High wing and low wing configuration

But typically, high-wing configurations are easier to fly than their low-wing partners. The high wing provides the plane stability while flying and makes it turbulence free. As a beginner, when you fly, the biggest obstacle you can face is unnecessary turbulence.

High wing configuration also provides greater visibility, which is essential while you are flying. It is easier to see what is happening around you so that you don’t get too close to the ground or anything while you are landing.

Dynamic engine: Cessna

The engine used in Cessna is yet another major reason for topping the list. The plane has a dynamic Lycoming IO-360 engine that provides ample horsepower to keep the aircraft running. You don’t have to bother about power running out when it’s the most needed.

Having a powerful engine helps to glide up at a cruising altitude without making efforts or struggling. Though Cessna might not be the fastest of all the aircraft, it certainly is the smoothest of all the planes that provide you the confidence to fly an airplane smoothly and easily.

Large cockpits: Cessna

The cockpits of Cessna are usually large and have ample room, making it comfortable to stay inside without feeling congested or cramped. Free movement can be easily made inside the cabin. You have the opportunity to stretch your legs or even sleep while you are traveling long distances. Being a four-seater aircraft, Cessna can easily accommodate a few passengers.

The seats are adjustable, and you can move them backward or forward according to your convenience, depending on how tall or short you are. And when you need to sleep, stretch your legs for that extra comfort while seated in your place. 

Automatic controls: Cessna

The controls on Cessna forgive because no matter what mistake you make as a learner, it’s not so sensitive as other aircraft. The automatic control corrects any mistake you make without any hustle. Beginner pilots can easily fly because if they make any mistakes, it is automatically corrected by the engine, making it easier for beginners to refrain from making any critical error during the flight. Its intuitive nature also extends to the stability of the plane.

Cessna is stable, meaning it doesn’t move around much while flying. Thus making it controllable and free from the unwanted stress one faces while flying an airplane. The joystick or the control stick is easy to handle and generates good control over the plane. 

What Is The Easiest Plane To Fly As A Pilot?

Suppose you are on the journey of becoming one of the best commercial plane pilots and looking for the easiest planes to fly. Then it is very likely that as a pilot, you may not have many options regarding which plane you want to fly. 

But you certainly can try your hands and initiate your journey with the help of some very easy to fly aircraft, which you really will be able to fly effortlessly. 

We have done an intense survey and found that amongst all of the easiest commercial aircrafts Boeing 747 is the easiest of them all.

Boeing 747

Two top names come when we mention commercial aircraft: Boeing and Airbus. Both these two brands make great planes and have millions of followers and loyal customers who swear by the genuinity of these aircraft. But a detailed survey can decipher that Boeing is considered faster than airbus among the two aircraft, especially the Boeing 747.

The renowned jumbo jet is astonishingly very easy to fly. The four gigantic engines in the jet create enormous thrust, making it easy to lift the aircraft right up into the air. This super fast jet reaches higher altitudes in no time at all. 

Once into the air, the modern autopilot system flies the jet all by itself. It easily and smoothly glides through the wind and clouds, and one of its most recognizable features is that it is hardly impacted by turbulence or rough weather. Making the journey smooth and easy for all, be it the pilot, the crew, or even the passengers. 

Boeing 747: Specifications

  • Top speed: 614mph
  • Cruising speed: 580 mph
  • Service Ceiling: 45,100 ft
  • Thrust: 66,500 ponds per engine at take-off
  • Fuel Range: 8,357 miles
  • Number of seats: 350-650+

What Is The Easiest Airplane To Land?

As discussed, single-engine, lightweight planes are the easiest to land. They are demanded to stall at 61 knots and precisely not more than that. Hence landing speed must be the lowest and at the minimum in any aircraft category. Cessna a150/152 is the easiest to land, according to the research done. 

They are crafted from such advanced machinery that they can land alone. With a unique combination of easy-to-maneuver compact design and stall warning, these aircraft are the easiest to land, even in difficult terrains.

What Is The Easiest Fighter Jet To Fly?

Fighter jets are always renowned for being the world’s most technologically developed aircraft type. And that is the very reason that only an experienced and learned pilot can fly fighter jets. 

These jets require special training to fly, and it may not be easy for beginner pilots. It is all because of those complex mechanisms that make it a bit difficult to access for novice pilots. But regardless of them being complex, the complex machinery itself is one of the key reasons that make the flight super easy, which is gradually attained once you are trained. 

In advanced fighter jets, the aircraft can fly itself. Regardless to say of being a fighter jet, its purpose itself is to rule the sky and provide air mastery, which only can be attained from the skillset of the pilot who is flying the jet. 

But when it comes to traditional cruising, you can say that fighter jets incorporate one of the modern autopilot systems in the world—proving the facility to fly effortlessly even during non-combat times. 

Recently you can say that the easiest fighter jet to fly is the F-22 Raptor by Lockheed Martin. 

#1 Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor

The F-22 Raptor is one of the biggest reasons that the military forces of the United States of America are considered one of the most powerful military forces in the whole world. The only reason is that they own F-22 Raptor. Launched in the year 2012 and instantly recognized as one of the most powerful and fear-instilling fighter jets in the world. 

The Raptor was assembled to detect enemy aircraft, protect Us military and equipment, and avoid many conflicts that would have arrived through its sheer presence. 

All that being mentioned, it indeed is one of the easiest to fly fighter jets for any well-trained pilot. Who knows the complex mechanism? We should always remember that a commercial or private pilot will not be able to hop into a Raptor and fly it. 

But it is very easy for a trained and well-equipped pilot to fly. It is almost like a breeze. The F-22 is so technically modern and has so many advanced sensors, engines, and control systems that it is almost capable of flying itself once the pilot initiates the flight and is in the air.

Due to its super fast speed and its capacity to fly through high altitudes, the external factors don’t affect the Raptor that much. Its sleek design helps it cut through winds and clouds effortlessly, and it monitors and regulates the computer system automatically by relying on endless sensor inputs. Any pilot would consider himself lucky if he got a chance to fly this enormously beautiful advanced fighter jet.

Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor: Specifications

  • Top speed: 1,500 mph
  • Cruising Speed: 1,220 mph
  • Service Ceiling: 60,000 feet
  • Thrust: 35,000 pounds/ engine take off
  • Fuel Range: 1,839 miles
  • Number of seats: 1

Timeless Planes for Beginner Pilots

When we talk about the aircraft models, we observe that each category has easier and harder-to-fly models. As the article we are discussing is focused on aircraft that are easy to fly. Let’s talk about planes that are easy to fly by beginners. We will focus on single-engine GA aircraft.

We have already discussed Cessna and a few varieties known for their trainer planes here; we will discuss a few more aircraft you haven’t considered. Let’s look into it with a bit more precision.

#1 Beechcraft Skipper

The Beechcraft Skipper is a popular, well-built, low-wing aircraft that is also considered one of the easiest-to-fly planes. If you have a license, you can enjoy the ease of flying a Skipper. But there have been complaints arising from the instructors that the easy landings didn’t provide ample opportunity for the beginners to learn. 

As the primary motive was to provide an opportunity for the beginners to learn, which it certainly did not serve, the production had to be taken down immediately, and only 312 planes were made. 

Both old and new pilots who had the opportunity to lay their hand on the skipper appreciate the phenomenal side view and outstanding front view during climbs. All thanks to its sloped nose design.

Beechcraft Skipper: Specification

  • Seats: 2
  • Total weight: 1,675 lbs
  • Empty weight: 1,100 lbs
  • Fuel capacity: 30 gal
  • Range: 412 nm
  • Take-off distance: 1,280 ft
  • Landing distance: 1,313 ft
  • Engine: Lycoming 0-235-L2C. 115 hp
  • Stall speed: 47 knots
  • Top speed: 143 knots
  • Cruising speed: 119 knots

#2 Champion Citabria 7ECA

Though Cessna and Pipers are more popular, Citabria has some unique features that convince you are their easy and handy nature. 

Most aircraft built as trainer aircraft are usually light in weight, but Citabria is a plane marketed as an acrobatic trainer. The plane meets dynamic force loading criteria and can sustain extremes extending from +5G to -2G. That claims to be more forgiving than any other aircraft. 

The heavier weight of the plane can sustain the strong winds. Similarly, the spring gear design forgives errors made by the learners. 

Champion Citabria 7ECA: Specifications

  • Seats: 2
  • Total weight: 1,750
  • Empty weight: 1,120
  • Fuel capacity: 36 gal
  • Range: 685 mi
  • Take-off distance: 1,050 ft
  • Landing distance: 885 ft
  • Engine: Lycoming 0-235-K2C, 118 hp
  • Stall Speed: 52 mph
  • Top Speed: 120 mph
  • Cruising Speed: 115 mph

#3 Piper Cherokee Cruiser 140 PA-28-140

The Piper is a low-wing plane that can handle wind brilliantly with outstanding stability that permits you to fly in circumstances where other planes would have already grounded themselves. The aileron control can be used to fly Piper. 

Its short wings make it easier to land and park even in difficult places. You will not be able to cannot stop yourself from appreciating it after you experience its ease of landing. Its landing is so easy that even some instructors complain it is too easy for a training aircraft.

Piper Cherokee Cruiser 140 PA-28-140: Specifications

  • Seats: 2 (optional 4-place conversation)
  • Total weight: 2,150 lbs
  • Empty weight: 1,250 lbs
  • Fuel capacity: 50 gal
  • Range: 800 ml
  • Take off distance: 780 ft run
  • Landing Distance: 535 ft run
  • Engine: Lycoming 0-320-E2A, 140 hp
  • Stall Speed: 54 mph
  • Top Speed: 144 mph
  • Cruising Speed: 135 mph

#4 Cessna 150/152

This amazing aircraft has tricycle gear configurations and is extremely easy to land. The manufacturers have named it ” Land-O-Matic.” During a flight, when the aircraft is in the air, even a bare minimum of pronounced stall provides the opportunity for the pilot to see, feel, and correct any due stalls before actually coming into a stall. It has attained the third most popular rank in the list of the easiest flying aircraft.

Cessna 150/152: Specifications

  • Seats: 2
  • Total weight: 1,500-1,600 lbs/ 1,670 lbs
  • Empty weight: 1,122 lb/ 1,081 lbs
  • Fuel capacity: 26-42 gal / 26 gal
  • Range: 420- 548 nm / 370-415 nm
  • Take off distance: 1,385 ft / 1,190 ft
  • Landing distance: 1,075 ft/ 1,160 ft
  • Engine: Continental 0-200-A, 100 hp/
  • Stall Speed: 42 knots / 43 knots
  • Top Speed: 109 knots
  • Cruising Speed: 82 knots/ 107 knots

#5 Diamond DA20 Katana

Most of the easiest trainer aircraft are usually from the first half of the last century. But Katana, which has arrived from Austria, is one of the latest entries that was first manufactured in 1994. The manufacturing of Katana has been done in such a manner that it permits the ailerons to maintain their productivity even if the wing roots might be stalled. 

The previous instructors liked the unique design and the availability of including a glass cockpit. With its enhanced features like tricycle gear, responsive controls, and great cockpit, it has become one of the favorites of learner pilots.

Diamond DA20 Katana: Specifications

  • Seats: 2
  • Total Weight: 1,764 lbs
  • Empty Weight: 1,180 lbs
  • Fuel Capacity: 24 gal
  • Range:525 nm
  • Take of distance: 1,640ft
  • Landing distance: 1,360 ft
  • Engine: Continental I0-240-B32B, 125 hp
  • Stall Speed: 36knots
  • Top Speed: 164 knots
  • Cruising Speed: 130 knots

#6 Ercoupe 415-C

Ercoupe is yet another best beginner aircraft that can be easily dealt with. If you have any queries about easy-to-fly aircraft, then pilots would probably recommend Ercoupe. The plane is specifically designed to fly easily and smoothly. 

It is recommended as a foolproof flight and is known to keep problems at bay and provide safety to the pilots. The Ercoupe helps with smooth and hustle-free landing, and the limits on the elevator-up travel decrease your stall. This is a plane that protects you while you fly it. 

This aircraft has unique car-like steering. The pilot doesn’t have to use the rudder pedals; instead, he will simply steer with the yoke just as you would in a car.

The aircraft comes at a cost-effective price and doesn’t pinch your pocket. If you have decided to buy a 415-C model, its extremely light weight allows you to fly under the light aircraft category. 

Ercoupe 415-C: Specifications

  • Seats: 2
  • Total weight: 1,260 lbs
  • Empty Weight: 855 lbs
  • Fuel Capacity: 24 gal
  • Range: 
  • Take-off distance: 1,950 ft
  • Landing distance: 1,750 ft
  • Engine: Continental C-85, 85 hp
  • Stall Speed: 46 mph
  • Top speed: 144 mph
  • Cruising Speed: 114 mph

#7 Luscombe 8F

Luscombe 8F

It is a light sport aircraft that has been reported to be quick and responsive during flights. There have been some debates regarding the landing of the flight; while some pilots complain that the landing was not that smooth, others disagree with it and state that the landing was superb. However, irrespective of the views, you can always include it in the list of easy-flying aircraft.

Luscombe 8F: Specifications

  • Seats: 2
  • Total weight: 1,320 lbs
  • Empty weight: 880 lbs
  • Fuel capacity: 30 gals
  • Take-off distance: 600 ft
  • Landing distance: 500 ft
  • Engine: Continental C-90, 90 hp
  • Stall Speed: 48 mph
  • Top Speed: 128 mph
  • Cruising Speed: 120 mph

#8 Piper super cub PA-18-150

Piper super cub PA-18-150

It’s yet another easiest-to-fly aircraft. This aircraft helps you with superior take-offs and landings in various sorts of terrains. It was first discovered in 1949 in the 1980s; it is a redesigned airframe that originated from the original Piper Cub. Its unique combination of ruggedness and dynamic strength makes it one of the most recommended aircraft to travel in remote areas where both short and soft field takeoff and landings are essential. 

Piper super cub PA-18-150: Specifications

  • Seats: 2 
  • Total weight: 1 750 lbs
  • Empty weight: 930 lbs
  • Fuel capacity: 36 gallons
  • Take off distance: 500 ft
  • Landing Distance: 885 ft
  • Engine: Lycoming 0-320-A2A, 150 hp
  • Stall Speed: 43 mph
  • Top Speed: 130 mph
  • Cruising Speed: 115 mph

#9 Piper Pacer PA – 20

Piper Pacer PA – 20

During the early 1950s, if there were any visually appealing aircraft, it was Piper Pacer. It is one of the best options for pilots looking for options to get into taildraggers. The plane may initially need a few flights to take off the ground, but once you are in the air, the pacemaker will fly smoothly and glide through winds effortlessly. It is known for its responsive controls. It is an expert in short and soft landings. 

Hence its unique combination of short-wing configuration makes it another most admired by both new and old pilots. 

Piper Pacer PA – 20: Specification

  • Seats:4
  • Total weight: 1,950 lbs
  • Empty weight: 1,020 lbs
  • Fuel capacity: 36 gal
  • Take-off distance: 1,600 ft
  • Landing distance: 1,280 ft
  • Engine: Lycoming 0-290-D2, 135 hp
  • Stall Speed: 42 kts
  • Top Speed: 137 ktas
  • Cruising Speed: 10 ktas

#10 Piper M350

With exceptional safety features and a superior engine system, this aircraft is still one of the most popular and in-demand aircraft. According to the manufacturers, it is one of the best piston packs with an exceptional 213 ktas cruising speed. Along with the agility to rise to 25,000 ft in pressurized comfort. The operating expenses are quite low due to the standard dual turbochargers that create a consistent fuel burn. 

If you analyze, you can easily state that it is one of the best choices for any pilot who has been looking for reliable and high-performance aircraft.

Piper M350: Specification

  • Seats: 6
  • Total weight:4340 Lb
  • Empty weight:1308 lbs
  • Fuel Capacity:120 US Gal
  • Take-off distance:637 mt
  • Landing distance:1,968 ft
  • Engine: Toubocharged Lycoming TIO-540-AE2A
  • Stall Speed:58 ktas
  • Top Speed:260 ktas
  • Cruising Speed:213 ktas

#11 Diamond DA40 Star

Diamond DA40 Star

This aircraft has a brilliant configuration of the maneuverable, non-steerable nose wheel. It is yet another cost-effective and brilliantly designed aircraft that any pilot, whether new or old, would love flying. 

This is a four-seater, low-wing monoplane that is made of composite materials and reaches almost an altitude of 1,000 fpm. It is exclusively seen in airports all around the globe. It comes at extremely affordable rates in the market for a single-engine plane.

Diamond DA40 Star: Specification

  • Seats: 4
  • Total weight: 2,646 lbs
  • Empty weight:1,746 lbs 
  • Fuel Capacity:50 US gal
  • Take-off distance:305 m
  • Landing distance:305 m
  • Engine: Lycoming 10360M1AAVAS Piston Engine
  • Stall Speed:96 kts
  • Top Speed:154 kts
  • Cruising Speed:125 kts

#12 Cirrus SR22T

 Cirrus SR22T

Cirrus is a single-engine aircraft and has been reported as one of the best-selling aircraft since 2003. It has multiple added features to it. There are a few worth mentioning – its ice certification, airbags, parachute, and space for up to five people: upgraded turbo changing and air conditioning. In a word, it is a complete package that meets any pilot’s needs. 

Cirrus SR22T: Specifications

  • Seats:3
  • Total weight:3600 Lb
  • Empty weight:2780 Lb
  • Fuel Capacity:92 gal Lb
  • Take-off distance:2,080ft
  • Landing distance:1,178ft
  • Engine:TSIO-550-K
  • Stall Speed:60kts
  • Top Speed:213 kts
  • Cruising Speed:201 kts

The Final Verdict on Planes for Beginner Pilots

It hardly matters if you have just received your private pilot certificate or you are a pro veteran aviator who is very much into hustle-free, single-engine aircraft with a bit of a tight budget. This article must have served you well. 

We have provided ample options from which you can choose and begin your journey as a pilot.

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