The recent advancements in the aviation industry has seen a massive shift in the price of the jets. With the advent of more players in the aviation sector has made the competition tough amongst the jet manufacturers. That is why small private planes are more affordable in recent times than ever.
Easier said than done and that is a major concern as well. The affordability is not the only option that needs your consideration. Some other factors like, operational cost, jet range, speed and hangerage are critical. However, one can never ignore the landing spaces and availability of runways to smoothly fly the private jet.
4 Affordable Executive Small Private Planes to Purchase
1. Cirrus Vision Jet- SF50
It is one of the lightest jets with a price tag of $1.9 to 2.2 million for used variants. However, a new VLJ (very light jet) of this category cost around $3 million. The model is efficiently designed to serve a personal use or short business travels.
The company launched two variants, G2 in 2019 and G2+ equipped with better engine performance. It is limited to 5 to 6 passengers and understandably so because of its size and price range.
- Its operation cost is $800 per hour of flight as it works on the single engine
- The range is around 1200 nm (nautical miles).
- Cirrus Vision Jet- SF50 cruises at around 550 kmph speed.
- It comes with additional safety features of CAPS (Cirrus Airframe Parachute System).
- It has a cockpit built to control the flight and understand the avionics.
2. HondaJet HA-420
The model was manufactured in Dec 2015 and is equipped with two GE Honda HF120 engines with 1,880lbs of thrust unlike the Cirrus Vision Jet- SF50 which is equipped with a single engine.
- The 4 to 5 seater HondaJet HA-420 has a range of about 1,200nm with a typical payload.
- Acquiring the jet cost around $4.8 to $5.9 million.
- Operation cost per hour is around $0.9 to 1.2K range.
- It cruises at a speed of 420 mph with fuel burn rate of 120 gallons per hour.
3. Eclipse 500
The third in our list of most affordable small private planes is the Eclipse 500. Unlike the HondaJet HA-420 it comes with a 6 seater passenger accommodation, including the pilot. The plane presents the opportunity for common people to own the jet at a price which is in their budget.
- A $2.2 million price tag is a potential deal maker, isn’t it?
- The operating cost per hour is around $1.3 to $1.6K.
- The jet cruises at 630 kmph speed and has an impressive range of 1130 nm.
4. Embraer Phenom 100
The model is another impressive VLJ that comes with a price of around $2.1 million. The Phenom 100 is another jet of small small planes category with low operating cost and is also one of the fastest and finest in category.
- The Emirates and Ettihad Airways train their pilots on the Phenom 100.
- BMW Designworks designed the jet’s interior which is perfect for the short airtrips, for business or pleasure purposes.
- The jet accommodates 6-7 passengers and flies at 0.7 Mach with around 1180 nm range.
Small Private Plans Under $100K
While the above discussed small private planes are affordable and have a range above 1000 nm. But still there are people who can’t afford them. Therefore, you do not need to worry about that as we bring before you small private planes under $100K. But, before purchasing the small private planes, do check out certain things:
- Since the planes of this category may have been serving for so long and refurbished over time. Make sure the engine is in good health as the safety of the crew is a lot more important than the cheap price tag.
- The manufacturing date and transfer of ownership data.
- The flying time and the history of its operation across several spaces and areas (if available).
- Availability of spares and maintenance in your area to avoid importing them from the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer).
1. ERCO Ercoupe: Small Jet Plane Under $20K
The plane of this category was flown way back in 1937 and hasn’t lost the mojo just as yet. The plan is being sold under $20K and is found to be the cheapest of all small private planes. It is ideal for new pilots or weekend aviators.
- To experience flying you need to be the pilot as the ERCO Ercouge doesn’t offer a space for even a co-pilot.
- The cruising speed is 153 kmph with a range of 483 km, fine for short weekend trips.
- Easy to operate with cost almost every person with aviation expertise can afford.
2. Aeronca Champion: Enjoy The Value For Money Flying
If you are yet to make a mark in the flying industry even after with aviation expertise. This is a plane that will not only help you enjoy the old flying you used to do as a big bird operator but also will help you improve your flying skills.
Though the price varies from the market to market basis, you can still find it between $25 to 42K range. It cruises at a speed of 137 kmph and has a range of around 300 miles.
3. Cessna 140: Gamechanger
The third in our list of the most affordable small private planes is the Cessna 140. The model prices don’t fluctuate much and are relatively low. If you want a bit more cruising speed, the model is best for you as it comes with a 170 kmph and a range is 720 km.
The fuel economy is another reason that it has a massive community of just over 120 pilots willing to take you onboard. You can purchase the model at an average price of $30K but the mint condition variant is priced at around the $50K mark.
The Cessna 150 is another option if you have a budget above $50K.
4. Stinson 108: Mid Ranger in Smallest Jet Planes Category
Another mid ranger in the small private planes category with a 4 seater accommodation. The perfect jet for a short trip with your family, business partners or colleagues reuniting after a long time.
- The jet cost around $40 to 60K
- It comes with a 165 hp powerplant.
- It cruises close to 180 kmph speed.
- The model has an impressive range of 720 km.
5. Piper J-3 Cub
It comes with a simple design and heritage. The stick-and-rudder flying adds to the recently increased prices of the bird. The plane is famous for its low speed operation and the nostalgia it carries with it. The plane is affordable, yet it is not manufactured to cater the long distance and high speed operations.
- It comes with a continental 65 hp powerplant.
- Cruise speed is around 140 kmph.
- It is best suited for short air flying and has a range of around 350 km.
- The price to purchase a Piper J-3 Cub is around $45K for an average jet. However the well maintained jet may cost you anywhere between $60K to $70K mark,
FAQs
What is the most affordable of small private planes?
While there are very few options in the executive class, for instance, the likes of HondaJet HA-420, Eclipse 500 and Embraer Phenom 100. You can purchase these planes for a few million bucks. However, if your budget is tight then you can switch to other affordable options at the expense of solo flights, less range and/or low cruising speed. Aeronca Champion, Cessna 140/150 series and Piper J-3 Cub are the options under the $100K range.
What is the smallest private plane called?
Sometimes, they are referred to as very light jet (VLJ), personal jet, entry or micro level jet.
Can a small private plane fly for up to 12 hours?
To calculate the flying time you need to apply the simplest s = v*t formula. Let’s consider a jet with a range of 1200 nm and a cruising speed of 600 kmph. It should give you approximately 3.7 hours of flight time, ignoring other factors.
To increase the flight time you need to increase the range (which you can by purchasing one of those small private planes with better fuel capacity). The other factor is the speed. The more it cruises at high mach speed. The fuel consumption will be greater and the less time it will take to arrive at the destination.
Gulfstream G650ER has an approximate range of around 7.5 nautical miles and a flight time of just over 12 hours to a maximum of 16 hours before it requires a refueling.
The Bottom Line
The executive class of small private planes has become far more accessible over the last decade, largely due to significant technological advancements and the increasing number of competitors in the aviation market. What was once considered a luxury reserved only for billionaires or large corporations has gradually shifted into a more attainable dream for entrepreneurs, business executives, and even aviation enthusiasts. Today, you can find a range of modern aircraft available for just a few million USD, offering impressive performance with ranges typically falling between 1,200 and 1,500 miles. These planes are ideal for regional travel, business commutes, and short cross-country hops without the need for frequent refueling stops.
For those who prefer simpler flying experiences, especially solo flights or short weekend getaways, older models—often referred to fondly as “old birds”, still hold their charm. A good example is the ERCO Ercoupe, first introduced in 1937. Despite its age, the Ercoupe is remembered for its approachable design and ease of handling, which made it especially popular among new pilots. While its range is limited, typically under 500 nautical miles or just slightly above, it remains a practical and enjoyable option for hobbyists or individuals who value straightforward, no-frills flying.
These older models might not compete with modern executive jets in terms of speed, luxury, or distance, but they offer something different: an affordable entry point into private aviation and a nostalgic flying experience that connects pilots to the roots of personal flight. Whether one chooses the efficiency of a modern executive jet or the simplicity of a classic Ercoupe, the options available today reflect how private aviation has evolved into a more diverse and accessible field.