Top 3 Personal Aircraft for Cross-Country Flying
The first step in purchasing an aircraft is determining your mission. Someone who wants to (or needs to) fly long distances on a regular basis will have different needs from someone who wants to fly aerobatics or partake in STOL competitions.
Today’s focus will be on the best single engine personal aircraft for cross country fliers. The aircraft listed below excel in aspects such as speed, useful load, fuel economy, and more. Let’s check out what’s in store in the cross-country department:
1. Cirrus SR-22
First up is the Cirrus SR-22. The SR-22 will get you where you need to go in style – and it will get you there fast!
The SR-22 can cruise at 183 KTAS, while the turbocharged SR-22T can get up to 213 KTAS, making it one of the fastest aircraft on this list! This aircraft burns between 14 and 18 gallons per hour at cruise, and it has a range of up to 1100 nautical miles.
As if the performance wasn’t enough, Cirrus Aircraft are some of the most technologically advanced on the general aviation market. The SR-22 comes equipped with the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS), to be used in the event of an emergency. Additionally, the latest generation, the G7+, comes equipped with Safe Return Emergency Autoland, yet another technological marvel to enhance flight safety.
Perhaps the best feature of the SR-22 (or any Cirrus for that matter) is the Cirrus Embark training program. Cirrus offers to train one pilot per purchase – for free – whenever they acquire a new or used Cirrus aircraft. That pilot could be the owner, or it could be a hired pilot. Regardless, the Embark program further demonstrates Cirrus’s commitment to safety and product excellence.
You’ll pay a pretty price for these pretty planes. A non-turbocharged SR-22 G7+ starts at $915,000 new – and that’s before adding on options such as FIKI and air conditioning. There is also a lengthy waiting list for delivery slots at Cirrus.
The used market for the SR-22 might be more appealing for many buyers. For starters, you can pick up a G2 for under $300,000 – or you could pick up a lightly used G7 for around $1,100,000. Additionally, there is no waiting list!
While pricier than most on this list, the SR-22’s safety features and performance numbers are just outstanding – not to mention the tremendous ramp appeal of those butterfly doors. The SR-22 is a clear frontrunner among personal cross-country aircraft.
2. Beechcraft Bonanza
Up next is the mighty Beechcraft Bonanza. The Bonanza has been in production continuously since 1947, making it the longest running production of any aircraft. You’ll easily spot the vintage models by their iconic V-Tails, which were produced from 1947 until 1982.
The most modern Bonanza, however, is the G36 model. It offers seating for up to 6 occupants with a useful load of over 1200 lbs. Passengers in the aft of the Bonanza get to enjoy a luxurious club seating arrangement.
The G36 will cruise around 175 KTAS. At 14-15 gallons per hour, that will get you a range of over 900 nautical miles.
Bought new, a G36 Bonanza will run you a mere $1,100,000. On the used market, though, those hoping to acquire a Bonanza can expect anywhere from under $100,000 for some older models up to over $1,000,000 for the newer models.
The Bonanza is beloved among pilots, and it is a staple of general aviation. Its speed, comfort, and fuel efficiency make it one of the most sought after personal aircraft for cross country fliers.
3. Cessna 182
Coming in next on the list is the tried and tested Cessna 182. Cessna has produced the 182 since 1956, and it has been a favorite of general aviation pilots from the beginning.
The primary strength of the Cessna 182 is that it’s an extremely versatile aircraft. It might not excel in any one area, but it will rival its competitors in nearly every category.
The 182 is known for having phenomenal range and payload capabilities. Even with the tanks topped off, the Cessna 182 can carry nearly 700 lbs of payload. That’s enough for at least three adults plus bags. Carrying slightly less fuel, the 182 could fit the whole family of four.
The 88 gallon fuel tanks are another plus. Burning between 12 and 15 gallons per hour at cruise speed of 145 KTAS, those massive tanks give the 182 a range of up to 900 nautical miles – that’s enough to get from Washington, DC, to Jacksonville, FL, without refueling!
The 182 is also a great short-field performer, making it more versatile than some competitors when it comes to picking a destination.
While a new Cessna 182 will cost between $650,000-$700,000, there are plenty of great options on the used market for significantly less – some are even below $200,000!
While the Cessna 182 isn’t the quickest plane on this list, it certainly checks a lot of boxes, and it can be acquired and operated at a relatively low price, making it one of the best personal aircraft for cross-country flying.
Honorable Mentions:
Cessna 206 Stationair
Socata TB-20 Trinidad
Mooney M20
Lancair Legacy 360
Rockwell Commander
Piper Lance & Saratoga
Vans RV-10
If there’s an aircraft you think should be listed here but isn’t, leave a comment below with your thoughts!
