7 Best Single-Engine Airplanes to Own Right Now

For a pilot, owning a plane is the ultimate assertion of independence. 

And let’s face it, air travel today just isn’t what it used to be. Enhanced screenings, screaming children, deadly pathogens, screaming children with deadly pathogens…imagine leaving it all behind in your own private aircraft. 

But deciding what’s the best single-engine airplane to own isn’t always easy. Not to worry—we’ve put together a list of seven of the best single-engine planes on the market:

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1. Diamond DA40 NG

When it comes to safety, the DA40 NG (the “NG” stands for “next generation”) is just about the best single-engine plane to own. It’s perfect for a first airplane, and boasts exceptional handling that’ll make you feel like you’re in complete control. 

With its first-class safety rating, the Diamond DA40 NG may be one of the better single-engine planes on the market. 

2. Beechcraft G36 Bonanza

Believe it or not, the Beechcraft G36 Bonanza holds the record for being the longest continuously produced aircraft in history. Which is understandable, considering it’s been around since 1947. 

The newer models have been upgraded, of course. More efficient engines and more sophisticated avionics come standard. And with its lengthy, proven track record, the Beechcraft G36 Bonanza could be the best airplane to buy. 

3. Cessna 172

This one’s pretty obvious. 

The Cessna 172 may not be the sexiest airplane in existence, but it’s the most-produced aircraft for a very good reason. It’s a reliable plane, and many pilots will already be familiar with its controls, as it’s a popular trainer at flight schools. 

4. Mooney M20 Acclaim Ultra

The excellent Mooney M20 Acclaim Ultra might be the world’s fastest single-engine plane. It bleeds off drag with a sleek and streamlined undercarriage, which also extends the range of this remarkable little aircraft. 

Oh, and if you’re into that sort of thing, the Acclaim Ultra has one of the sexiest interiors you’ll find in a single-engine plane. 

5. Pilatus PC-12 NG

There are good reasons to rank the Pilatus PC-12 as possibly the best single-engine plane. 

It’s fast and has an excellent range, but it’s also a rugged little plane. The PC-12 is renowned for being able to land safely on short, ill-maintained runways. 

Partly because of this, as well as its large cabin size and extensive range, the PC-12 makes an excellent cargo-carrier, as well as passenger-mover. 

6. Piper M350

The Piper M350, with its twin-turbocharged piston engine, is a perfect choice for a private plane. Its pressurized cabin allows for a cruising altitude of up to 25,000 feet, and it’s certainly one of the swifter single-engine planes. 

The dual turbochargers, meanwhile, keep costs low by maintaining a consistent fuel burn at all altitudes. Altogether, the Piper M350 is a high-performing machine. 

7. Cirrus SR22T

The Cirrus SR22T just about has it all. If you’re looking to trade a plane you own now for an upgrade, this might be the best choice for you. 

We’re talking turbocharged engines, airbags, oxygen systems, remote keyless entry, and even a parachute—not for passengers, but for the entire airplane. If you’re looking for a single-engine aircraft with all the best features, the Cirrus SR22T is for you. 

Find the Best Single-Engine Airplane to Own

There are many options to weigh when choosing the best single-engine airplane to own. It really all depends on how you intend to use your plane, and which model you’re most comfortable with.

8. Cirrus Vision Jet 

Option number eight on the list is this one, the Cirrus Vision Jet. It is one of the smaller options available, but it’s incredibly powerful. It is a private jet with a single engine system, powered by an FJ33-5A turbofan engine, which is capable of creating at least 18,000lbs of thrust. 

As an aircraft, it took 10 years to make, and features a very distinctive tail, instead of the conventional rudder. This is one of those private jets that is designed for the owner to fly, but a pilot would work just as well in the circumstances. 

This is definitely one of those models that puts an emphasis on being small, but pretty tough. It has a lot of power wrapped up within the frame of the plane. It’s a good, reliable little get-around. 

9. Cessna Citation CJ3+

Anybody who is not an immediate fan of the Vision can look at this, the Cessna Citation CJ3+. As an enhanced version of the original CJ3, it has many desirable characteristics. 

The jet features a comfortable cabin for passengers, and a Garmin g3000 avionics system. Owing to its smaller size, it can also be flown by just one pilot, which is helpful. The interior is plenty big enough for nine passengers, and features a lavatory, Wi-Fi, LED lighting, and six different themes for interior design. Ultimately, it does provide a very unique and interesting experience, which is nice. 

This type of plane is definitely a modern way to do things and offers a proper interpretation as such, which makes it a good pick when it comes to good avionics. It’s nice to fly in comfort, and the Citation definitely has comfort. 

10. Stinson 108

The Stinson 108 is a unique kind of aircraft which does things a little differently, and has been in active service since the 1940’s. However, it has also gained a cult-like devotion from fans, which is strange considering the design is very reminiscent of the time. 

Featuring a fabric-enclosed fuselage made from steel tubing, the vehicle is capable of seating up to four people. As a plane, it also has a cruising speed of about 110 mph, which is quite good.

This is definitely a historic aircraft, which can be very nice for collectors and enthusiasts. It does lack some of the modern comforts, but at the same time, it makes up for that with charming nostalgia and ingenuity. 

11. Beechcraft Skipper

This is an interesting aircraft, simply because it has been defined over the years as the plane for pilots. It was designed to compete directly with Cessna, who did control the market back in the 1970s.

But, it does have a full metal body, a very roomy cockpit, low wing placement for proper flying, and that charming tail from the mid 1970s.

As a model, this might be a little bit older, but it can be a very unique offering. Pilots love these, and they do have a nice 1970’s nostalgia which is hard to ignore. 

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