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Single Engine Piston Airplanes for Sale
Find New & Used Single Piston Planes for Sale on AvPay. Search our Aircraft Listings for SEP Aircraft for Sale from Manufacturers such as Beechcraft, Cessna, Cirrus, Diamond, Mooney, Piper & more. Buy Single Engine Piston Airplanes direct from Manufacturers, Aircraft Brokers, Flying Schools or Private Sellers on AvPay. Browse our extensive range of Piston Single Airplanes for Sale in the USA, North America, UK, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and South America. View all Aircraft for Sale on AvPay Here
 20Listed: May 21, 2026 Updated:May 21, 2026 | Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 1990 Location: | The White Lightning is one of the most aerodynamically efficient experimental aircraft ever built — a rare four-place composite design created to achieve exceptional speed & fuel economy from a modest 210 HP Continental IO-360. With retractable gear, sleek mid-wing styling, fighter-like seating & cruise speeds approaching 250–260 MPH, the… | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 20 Listed: May 21, 2026 Updated:May 21, 2026 Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 1990 Location: The White Lightning is one of the most aerodynamically efficient experimental aircraft ever built — a rare four-place composite design created to achieve exceptional speed & fuel economy from a modest 210 HP Continental IO-360. With retractable gear, sleek mid-wing styling, fighter-like seating & cruise speeds approaching 250–260 MPH, the… | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 18Listed: May 20, 2026 Updated:May 20, 2026 | Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 1980 Location: | This hangared, airworthiness-current Cessna P210N offers the perfect blend of high-altitude capability, strong performance, and upgraded cabin comfort. Its sleek gray exterior gives the aircraft a clean, modern look, backed by the reliability and utility the P210 series is known for. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 18 Listed: May 20, 2026 Updated:May 20, 2026 Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 1980 Location: This hangared, airworthiness-current Cessna P210N offers the perfect blend of high-altitude capability, strong performance, and upgraded cabin comfort. Its sleek gray exterior gives the aircraft a clean, modern look, backed by the reliability and utility the P210 series is known for. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 20Listed: May 19, 2026 Updated:May 19, 2026 | Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 2009 Location: | Good condition, well built RV12 looking for a new home. Aircraft features a glass panel & many extra items. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 20 Listed: May 19, 2026 Updated:May 19, 2026 Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 2009 Location: Good condition, well built RV12 looking for a new home. Aircraft features a glass panel & many extra items. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 25Listed: May 18, 2026 Updated:May 18, 2026 | Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 2022 Location: | N49EL 2024 G36 Bonanza, Serial Number E-4158, Airframe 170 Total Time Since Factory New, IO-550 300 Horsepower Engine 170 Hours Since Factory New, 3 Blade Hartzell Hot Prop 170 Hours Since Factory New, New Style Digital Climate Control, Garmin G1000NXi Fully Integrated Avionics with Surface Watch, Safe Taxi, Synthetic Vision… | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 25 Listed: May 18, 2026 Updated:May 18, 2026 Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 2022 Location: N49EL 2024 G36 Bonanza, Serial Number E-4158, Airframe 170 Total Time Since Factory New, IO-550 300 Horsepower Engine 170 Hours Since Factory New, 3 Blade Hartzell Hot Prop 170 Hours Since Factory New, New Style Digital Climate Control, Garmin G1000NXi Fully Integrated Avionics with Surface Watch, Safe Taxi, Synthetic Vision… | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 28Listed: May 15, 2026 Updated:May 15, 2026 | Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 1977 Location: | N18318 1977 V35B Bonanza, Serial Number D-10041, Airframe 4235 Hours Total Time, Victor Black IO-550 300 Horsepower Engine 1480 Since Major Overhaul, 3 Blade Scimitar Hartzell Propeller 205 Hours Since New, D'Shannon 20 Gallon Tip Tanks (114 Gallons Useable), D'Shannon Engine Baffles, D'Shannon 1/2" Windshield, Plane Power Alternator, Garmin 10.6"… | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 28 Listed: May 15, 2026 Updated:May 15, 2026 Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 1977 Location: N18318 1977 V35B Bonanza, Serial Number D-10041, Airframe 4235 Hours Total Time, Victor Black IO-550 300 Horsepower Engine 1480 Since Major Overhaul, 3 Blade Scimitar Hartzell Propeller 205 Hours Since New, D'Shannon 20 Gallon Tip Tanks (114 Gallons Useable), D'Shannon Engine Baffles, D'Shannon 1/2" Windshield, Plane Power Alternator, Garmin 10.6"… | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 6Listed: May 14, 2026 Updated:May 20, 2026 | Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 2000 Location: | The Piper Archer is a versatile four-seat single-engine aircraft renowned for its reliability, stable flight characteristics & cost-effective operation. Powered by a dependable Lycoming piston engine, the Archer offers smooth handling, comfortable cabin space & excellent performance for both training & cross-country flying. Its proven design, practical avionics capability &… | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 6 Listed: May 14, 2026 Updated:May 20, 2026 Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 2000 Location: The Piper Archer is a versatile four-seat single-engine aircraft renowned for its reliability, stable flight characteristics & cost-effective operation. Powered by a dependable Lycoming piston engine, the Archer offers smooth handling, comfortable cabin space & excellent performance for both training & cross-country flying. Its proven design, practical avionics capability &… | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 20Listed: May 13, 2026 Updated:May 15, 2026 | Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 1977 Location: | The Piper PA-28-181 Archer is a four-seat, single-engine, low-wing, all-metal light aircraft featuring fixed tricycle landing gear & a Lycoming O-360 engine. Introduced in 1974 as an evolution of the Cherokee 180, it is widely used for training & personal use. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 20 Listed: May 13, 2026 Updated:May 15, 2026 Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 1977 Location: The Piper PA-28-181 Archer is a four-seat, single-engine, low-wing, all-metal light aircraft featuring fixed tricycle landing gear & a Lycoming O-360 engine. Introduced in 1974 as an evolution of the Cherokee 180, it is widely used for training & personal use. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 20Listed: May 13, 2026 Updated:May 15, 2026 | Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 2010 Location: | The ICP Savannah is a popular Italian 2 seat, high wing, all metal STOL aircraft, designed for rugged unpaved runways. It is renowned for its exceptional lift, low speed handling & versatile performance in both recreational & utility flying. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 20 Listed: May 13, 2026 Updated:May 15, 2026 Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 2010 Location: The ICP Savannah is a popular Italian 2 seat, high wing, all metal STOL aircraft, designed for rugged unpaved runways. It is renowned for its exceptional lift, low speed handling & versatile performance in both recreational & utility flying. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 20Listed: May 13, 2026 Updated:May 15, 2026 | Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 2022 Location: | The 2022 CubCrafters CCX-2300 (N499TX) is an exceptionally clean, low-time backcountry aircraft with just 198 hours since new. Equipped with a 215 HP Lycoming IO-390, Garmin IFR avionics, autopilot & a convertible tailwheel configuration, this sporty bush plane blends STOL utility with modern cross-country capability & comfort. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 20 Listed: May 13, 2026 Updated:May 15, 2026 Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 2022 Location: The 2022 CubCrafters CCX-2300 (N499TX) is an exceptionally clean, low-time backcountry aircraft with just 198 hours since new. Equipped with a 215 HP Lycoming IO-390, Garmin IFR avionics, autopilot & a convertible tailwheel configuration, this sporty bush plane blends STOL utility with modern cross-country capability & comfort. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 9Listed: May 10, 2026 Updated:May 11, 2026 | Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 1986 Location: | AirplanesUSA proudly present this magnificent, better-than-new B36TC Bonanza! Absolutely stunning, low-time, no damage history aircraft with no expense spared in upgrades and maintenance. IO-550 and Tornado Alley Whirlwind III Turbo-normalized Conversion! This truly is a turn-key cross-country beast with the finest avionics, a McCauley 3-blade prop and a flawless airframe. … | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 9 Listed: May 10, 2026 Updated:May 11, 2026 Aircraft Type: Manufacturer: Model: Year: 1986 Location: AirplanesUSA proudly present this magnificent, better-than-new B36TC Bonanza! Absolutely stunning, low-time, no damage history aircraft with no expense spared in upgrades and maintenance. IO-550 and Tornado Alley Whirlwind III Turbo-normalized Conversion! This truly is a turn-key cross-country beast with the finest avionics, a McCauley 3-blade prop and a flawless airframe. … | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Find Your Ideal Single Engine Piston Aircraft for Sale on AvPay
AvPay, a global marketplace for SEP aircraft for sale, connects buyers and sellers across the USA, North America, UK, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, South America, and beyond. Explore our extensive online selection of new and pre-owned single piston airplanes for sale.
Refine your single engine piston for sale search on AvPay using our easy-to-use filters. Quickly find your perfect single piston aircraft by filtering by manufacturer, model, condition, year, total time, location, price, and seller.
As a leading aircraft sales marketplace, AvPay features a diverse range of aircraft for sale, including single engine piston. Discover our full selection of SEP aircraft for sale on this page, or browse all aircraft types and manufacturers here.
Found your dream single engine piston plane? Connect directly with sellers on AvPay via WhatsApp, private message, or phone to discuss pricing and specifications of the single piston airplane for sale.
Why buy a Single Engine Piston Airplane For Sale?
✈ Affordability and Accessibility: Single engine piston aircraft offer a more affordable entry point into private aviation compared to larger aircraft like jets or turboprops. They are also more accessible, with a wider range of options available for both new and experienced pilots.
✈ Versatility and Flexibility: Single piston aircraft are highly versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, including personal travel, flight training, and recreational flying. They can operate from smaller airports and unpaved runways, providing access to a wider range of destinations.
✈ Fuel Efficiency and Low Operating Costs: SEP aircraft are known for their fuel efficiency and low operating costs. They are a cost-effective option for those seeking a private flying experience without the high expenses associated with larger aircraft.
✈ Easy Maintenance and Handling: Single engine piston aircraft are generally easier to maintain and handle compared to larger aircraft. They have simpler systems and require less specialized training for pilots and mechanics.
✈ Community and Camaraderie: Owning a single piston aircraft can provide a sense of community and camaraderie within the aviation world. Connect with other pilots, share experiences, and participate in aviation events and activities.
Single Engine Piston Aircraft are ideal for
✈ Personal Travel: Single engine piston aircraft are ideal for personal travel, allowing you to explore new destinations and enjoy the freedom of flying on your own terms. They offer a more intimate and personalized flying experience compared to commercial airlines.
✈ Flight Training: Single piston aircraft are commonly used for flight training, providing a solid foundation for pilots learning to fly. They are a great starting point for aspiring pilots who want to gain experience and build their skills.
✈ Recreational Flying: Single engine piston aircraft are perfect for recreational flying, allowing you to enjoy aerial adventures and explore the beauty of the skies. Whether you're interested in sightseeing, aerobatics, or cross-country flights, there's a single-engine piston aircraft that's right for you.
✈ Small Business Operations: Single piston aircraft can be used for small business operations, such as aerial photography, crop dusting, and flightseeing tours. Their versatility and affordability make them a practical choice for entrepreneurs.
✈ Community Service: SEP aircraft can be used for community service initiatives, such as search and rescue missions, disaster relief, and medical transport. Their ability to operate in remote areas and reach difficult-to-access locations makes them valuable assets for communities in need.
Get help buying a Single Engine Piston Aircraft
Can't find the single piston airplane you're looking for? Contact an Aircraft Broker through our Aircraft Broker Directory to help you buy a SEP aircraft. Or, browse Aircraft Brokerage and Aircraft Acquisition Services through the aviation marketplace to help with your single engine piston aircraft purchase.
Sell your Single Engine Piston Aircraft on AvPay
Do you have a single engine piston aircraft for sale? List your SEP airplane on AvPay and reach buyers searching for single piston planes worldwide. AvPay is a zero-workload website, so you'll never need to update your listings. We'll feature each aircraft listing on our social media pages, giving you extra visibility in front of our 170,000+ followers. With AvPay, you won't just generate inquiries on your aircraft listings. You'll also generate inquiries through your aircraft broker profile and each service listing you include on our aviation marketplace pages. Let AvPay promote your single piston aircraft for sale. List your Single Engine Piston Aircraft on AvPay Today!
Single Engine Piston Aircraft for sale on AvPay FAQ
Find single engine piston airplanes for sale on AvPay, including top aircraft manufactures such as Beechcraft, Cessna, Cirrus, Diamond, Extra, Piper and Socata. These single engine piston aircraft for sale are desirable due to the lower operating costs, lower maintenance cost and mission adaptability into smaller airports and shorter runways.
While several aircraft types of aircraft are technically Single Engine Piston Aircraft (such as microlights and motor gliders), the term Single Engine Piston Aircraft is used throughout the AvPay website to refer to a conventional three-axis aircraft that uses ailerons for roll, elevators or stabilators for pitch and a rudder for yaw, that has a Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW) of above 650kg and that’s designed to be operated with the engine continuously running (unlike a motor glider). Examples of Single Engine Piston Aircraft include the Cessna 182, the Piper PA28 Warrior and the Cirrus SR22.
Cessna 172
The Cessna 172 is a four seat Single Engine Piston Aircraft. Built with a high wing, the Cessna 172 gives both the pilot and passengers excellent visibility of the ground, making it an ideal aircraft to learn to navigate on. Since first being flown back in 1955, over 44,000 aircraft have been built and the aircraft is still in product today.
Cirrus SR22
The Cirrus SR22 is a four seat Single Engine Piston Aircraft. Developed from the SR20 it has a larger wing, a more powerful engine and a greater fuel capacity. Since being entered into product in 2001, over 6,100 SR22s have been built. The Cirrus SR22 is equipped with the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS), which is a large parachute designed to be deployed should the enter and be unrecoverable from uncontrolled flight.
Piper PA28
The Piper PA28 is a family of similar aircraft models which include the Piper Cherokee, Piper Warrior, Piper Archer, Piper Dakota, Piper Arrow and the Piper Cadet. The PA28 is a four seat Single Engine Piston Aircraft, first introduced in 1960. Since then over 32,000 have been built and the aircraft is still in production today. Unlike the Cirrus SR22, which is made up of 30% composite material, the PA28 is an all-metal aircraft.
Diamond DA40
The Diamond DA40 is a four seat Single Engine Piston Aircraft, which has been in production since 1997. The aircraft is built in both Austria and Canada and since its inception, over 2,200 have been built. The aircraft is built of composite materials, has tricycle undercarriage and is fitted with a T-Tail. Versions of the Diamond DA40 include the DA40D, DA40F, DA40NG, T-52A, DA40 XLT, DA40 Tundra Star and the eDA40.
Cessna 206
The Cessna 206 is a six seat Single Engine Piston Aircraft more commonly known as the Stationair. Frequently used for bush flying, skydiving and aerial photography, the Cessna 206 has been in production since 1962 and over 8,500 aircraft have been built. The Stationair cruises at just over 160mph. Combining its fast speed with its roomy cabin, the Cessna 206 is an ideal touring aircraft.
Beechcraft Bonanza
The Beechcraft Bonanza is a six seat Single Engine Piston Aircraft, which has been built in Kansas since 1947. Since then over 17,000 aircraft have been built. The aircraft is an all-metal construction and was revolutionary when first introduced, as a lot of other aircraft were built from wood and fabric. Some Bonanzas are distinguishable with their V tail ruddervators, which combined the rudder and elevator of the aircraft. The Bonanza family comprises of three main models: the model 35, model 33 and the model 36.
Piper M350
Setting new standards in terms of value for money operations, efficiency and capability, the Piper M350 offers standard safety features while travelling in luxury and comfort. The cabin features Integrated Digital Pressurisation, accommodating one pilot and five passengers with its lush leather seating, executive writing tables and Piper AirStair Door, it boasts the finest cabin in its class. Cabin noise is reduction is achieved by the Lycoming TIO-540-AE2A turbocharged engine and Hartzell Three-Blade Composite Constant Speed Propeller.
Additional safety is provided by the Garmin G1000NXI Next Generation Three Screen Avionics Suite with Synthetic Vision Technology, Garmin GFC-700 Autopilot/Flight Guidance Computer and Garmin GTX-345R Transponder with ADS-B (In and Out). Electronic Stability Protection provides stability during flight, applying control force during over- or under speed conditions.
The Piper M350 comes standard equipped with PiperAire Air Conditioning System, Speed Brakes, Rosen Sun Visors, and Garmin SafeTaxi.
Piper Saratoga II TC
The Piper Saratoga II TC has a reputation of being a hardworking, heavy carrying aircraft that combines cabin comfort with speed, accessibility to remote areas and pilot-friendly cockpit.
Powered by the 300 hp Lycoming TIO-540 turbocharged engine, the Piper Saratoga II TC cruises at 183 kts, has the ability of carrying up to six passengers in the club configured cabin, up to a 690nm range. This high-performance aircraft is fitted with a three blade Hartzell constant speed propellor, ensuring cabin noise reduction. Enabling easy access to the cabin, this aircraft provides a wide cabin door and storage hatch aft of the passenger seating.
Cessna 210
As single engine, six-seater high performance Cessna 210 has been in production since 1957 which ended in 1986. Derived from the four-seater Cessna 182, the 210 was redesigned to a wider, larger cabin aircraft with retractable gear and an enhanced performance engine. Also available in the pressurized cabin version with an increased take-off weight, longer span stabilizers and a 325 hp Continental TSIO-520-CE engine, only forty of these were built between 1985 and 1986.
Cirrus SR20
Small but nifty, this four-seat aircraft is a small giant to be reckoned with! Business or pleasure has no boundaries when it comes to the Cirrus SR20. It’s spacious four passenger luxurious leather interior with various USB ports. Uncompromised safety features such as Electronic Stability and Protection System, along with the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System makes the Cirrus SR20 a positive contender in the current market.
Cirrus Perspective+ designed by Garmin provides for the avionics suite.
Powered by a Lycoming IO-390-C3B6 engine delivering a cruise speed of approximately 155 kts and a 709 nm range makes the Cirrus SR20 the perfect family mode of transport.
Mooney Ovation M20J
Manufactured by the Mooney International Corporation and first introduced in 1955, this low wing, four-seater aircraft, equipped with tricycle gear and piston powered, the Moony Ovation M20J is one of the leading choices when it comes to small family transportation options that are available on the market. Delivering extraordinary performance with a cruising of 169 kts and achieving a 1,125 nm range, the Mooney Ovation can carry up to 1,100 useful load. Avionics are provided by a state-of-the art avionics suite, allowing for increased pilot cognisance and awareness.
Cessna Skyhawk 182
Providing the owner of a range of 915nm range at a cruise speed of 145 kts, this four-seater Cessna Skylane 182 delivers 1,110 lb of useful load. With its high wing design allowing for magnificent window isle views this high-performance aircraft delivers short take-offs and landings on different platforms.
Complemented by the Garmin G1000 NXi Next Generation Avionics Suite enabled with ADS-B Out and In, Standard Garmin Electronic Stability Protection, Under Speed Protection and VSI makes this aircraft one of the safest and most economical options available on the market
Diamond DA-20
Taking to the sky in the Diamond DA-20 is similar to taking your taking a Lamborghini to the racetrack - just adding wings! With its attractive, customized design, this affordable aircraft offers unlimited performance, durability that is impressive and matched economically to its peers. Usually used for training, this two-seater aircraft delivers a 729 nm rage at an impressive 126kts cruise speed. Its elegant interior and surpassed Garmin G500 Avionics Suite, it also boasts four-point inertia reel safety harnesses and low-cost maintenance features such as PistonPower, enabling owners and operators to benefit form the cost predictability and peace of mind.
Cessna Cardinal 177 RG
Intended to replace the Cessna Skyhawk C172, the Cessna Cardinal C177 RG which has been in production since 1970. The main landing gears and nose-wheel retract to the rear of the aircraft. Powered by the Lycoming IO-360 engine, the Cessna Cardinal C177 RG offers increased gross weight with at least 300 lbs and an increase of 146 lbs empty weight. According to the statistics of the Cessna R177RG, the aircraft is able to deliver a 230 km/h cruise speed, delivering a range of up to 1,119 km, making this little biscuit a cookie to look out for!
What defines the “best” Single Engine Piston Aircraft ultimately depends on the type of flying you’re looking for.
If you’re looking for something that’ll get you from A to B quickly, the Mooney Acclaim, Cirrus SR22, Piper M350, Mooney Ovation Ultra, Beechcraft Bonanza G36, Cessna Turbo Stationair will all get you there at a cruising speed over 150 knots.
If you’re looking for an aircraft capable of aerobatics, you may want to start-off with the Cessna 152 Aerobat since the aircraft’s docile flying characteristics are ideal for getting used to flying at unusual attitudes. For the more advanced aerobatic pilot, the Extra 300 series has been a very popular aerobatic aircraft. Designed in 1987 the aircraft is built in Germany and is capable of pulling +/- 10 G.
While the Pilot’s Operating Handbook will give you a rough idea of an aircraft’s range, the distance an aircraft can fly can vary depending on the amount of fuel you carry, how well you manage the engine’s mixture, the weight of the aircraft, the speed at which you fly, how accurately you fly the aircraft (i.e. in balance) and the prevailing winds. To give you an idea of range, the Cessna 172 is reported to be able to fly just short of 700 miles, the Piper Cherokee 465 miles and the Cirrus SR22 1,049 miles.
There’s a big difference between the entry-level Single Engine Piston Aircraft and the top-end models, so you can’t really put a price on an “average” SEP. You can buy an older Robin HR200 or an older Cessna 150 for between £25,000 - £60,000, however you can expect these aircraft to have relatively high hours and some wear and tear. On the top-end of the SEP market you can buy a top-spec, low hour and relatively new Cirrus SR22 G6 GTS for around the $1,000,000 mark.
The Antonov AN-2 is the world’s biggest Single Engine Piston Airplane. Entering service back in 1947, the biplane has enjoyed great success owing to its ability to take-off and land from rough runways and its high lifting power. Powered by a 1,000hp engine, the AN-2 burns through around 2.5 litres of fuel per minute!
The Antonov AN-2 can carry a maximum payload of 2,140kg, which is almost the equivalent of carrying 5 Cessna 150s!
An aircraft engine will run as efficiently as the pilot runs it. Once above 5,000 feet, pilots should start reducing the engine’s mixture (the fuel to air ratio of) in order to get the most efficient fuel burn. The higher you climb the less oxygen there is, therefore you need to lean the mixture as you climb and then enrichen the mixture as you descend. Unless flying from higher-altitude airstrips, care should be taken that the mixture is set to full-rich, before re-joining the circuit.
Generally speaking the more you look after an engine (regular services, avoid shock-loading etc.), the more it’ll look after you. Some pilots look after their engines by avoiding using too much carburettor heating while flying at cruise power settings over the ocean, while others opt for a lean fuel mixture when taxying back, to burn-off any dirt from the sparkplugs. Lycoming is a popular aircraft engine manufacturer. Based in the US, they have produced a variety of aircraft engines throughout the last century and are still active today. Rotax is another popular aircraft engine manufacturer and they’re based out of Austria.
The world’s fastest Single Engine Piston Aircraft is said to be the heavily modified P51 Mustang known as “Voodoo”, which is said to have flown at 554mph in September 2017. The P51 Mustang was originally a Second World War, single-seat, Single Engine Piston fighter aircraft operated by the United States Air Force and the Royal Air Force in the early 1940s. Surprisingly, there are still around 175 in airworthy condition today!
The main Single Engine Piston Aircraft Manufacturers include:
- Beechcraft
- Beechcraft is a manufacturer of Single Engine Piston, Multi Engine Piston and Turbprop aircraft. Headquartered in Wichita Kansas, the company was founded in 1932 and has since manufactured around 54,000 aircraft including models such as the Beechcraft Bonanza, Beechcraft Debonair, Beechcraft Twin Bonanza, Beechcraft Baron, Beechcraft Duke, Beechcraft Duchess and more recently the Beechcraft Denali, which is set to compete with Cessna’s Caravan and Pilatus’ PC12.
- Cessna
- Cessna is an American manufacturer of Piston, Turboprop and Jet Aircraft headquartered in Wichita, Kansas. Founded in 1927. In 2014 Cessna, along with Hawker Aircraft and Beechcraft, was incorporated into Textron. Popular Cessna models include the Cessna 150, Cessna 152, Cessna 172 Skyhawk, Cessna 177 Cardinal, Cessna 182 Skylane, Cessna 206 Stationair, Cessna 208 Caravan and the Cessna 210 Centurion.
- Cirrus Aircraft
- Cirrus Aircraft was founded in 1984 and is headquartered in Duluth, Minnesota. The Cirrus Aircraft models were revolutionary in being fitted with a parachute device, that could save the crew should the pilot lose control of the aircraft. The aircraft is also well-known for the side-stick control column layout and the glass cockpit.
- Diamond Aircraft
- Diamond Aircraft was founded in 1981 and is headquartered in Wiener Neustadt, in Austria. The company also has manufacturing facilities in Ontario, Canada. Popular Diamond Aircraft models include the DA20 Katana, DA40 Star and more recently the DA50.
- Mooney
- Mooney was founded in 1929 and is headquartered in Kerrville, Texas. Some Mooney Aircraft are easily recognisable from their distinctive vertical stabiliser. The most popular series of Mooney Aircraft is the Mooney M20, of which there are several variants.
- Piper Aircraft
- Piper Aircraft is headquartered in Vero Beach Florida and was founded in 1927. Over 90,000 Piper Aircraft are still flying today and popular models include the Piper Cub, Piper Cherokee, Piper Warrior, Piper Arrow and the Piper Archer.
- Tecnam
- Tecnam was founded in 1986 and is based out of Casoria in Italy. Tecnam produce piston aircraft including the Tecnam P2002 Sierra, the Tecnam P2004 Bravo and the Tecnam P2006T.
