Discover insights, tips, and stories from the skies — from aircraft buying guides to pilot training.
Published: October 2, 2025
Flying long distances in a small airplane takes the right mix of power, comfort, and endurance. Pilots in the USA love the freedom of owning a single engine aircraft that can carry them far without needing to stop often for fuel.
For example, a modern TBM 960 can cruise near 308 knots while using roughly 57 gallons per hour, which shows how efficient a fast single can be on long trips.
Whether you’re dreaming about long cross-country flights or planning to visit family several states away, choosing the right plane makes all the difference.
Some planes are made for short hops. Others are built for adventure — efficient, steady, and ready for hours in the air. These long-haul single-engine planes are designed with strong airframes, advanced avionics, and dependable horsepower that make every journey smoother and safer.
So, what makes one airplane better than another for long trips?
A long flight can be exciting, but the aviation basics matter most: safety, comfort, and range. A good long-distance engine plane has a few key traits that help it go the distance with confidence and efficiency.
The most important thing for long trips is how far the plane can fly before it needs to refuel. Range depends on fuel capacity, cruise speed, and how much fuel the engine burns per hour. Planes that use avgas or Jet-A efficiently save money and allow longer legs.
For example, the Piper M350 can travel over 1,300 miles on a full tank while keeping a steady cruise pace. It’s a favorite in general aviation because it offers both speed and range for families or business travelers.
A strong Lycoming or Continental engine gives pilots the horsepower needed to climb quickly and handle changing altitude. More power means better performance, especially in high performance aircraft that cruise smoothly above rough weather.
Long flights can be tiring, so good cabin design matters. Some planes can even pressurize the cabin, keeping the air comfortable at higher altitudes. Others, like the Cirrus SR22, include features such as the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System, which adds peace of mind for pilots and passengers.
Modern avionics help reduce workload during long legs. Advanced autopilots, digital displays, and engine monitors help the pilot focus on navigation instead of small details. Smooth controls and well-designed cockpits make the entire trip feel professional and safe.
Planes like the Bonanza and Cessna are built to last, often earning the nickname “workhorse” for their reliability. A tough, aerodynamic airframe means less drag and better fuel economy, which helps stretch that range even farther.
When you combine range, power, comfort, and smart design, you get a plane ready to fly all day — safely and efficiently.
Many pilots in general aviation prefer single-engine piston aircraft for long-distance flying. They’re easier to fly, less expensive to maintain, and still powerful enough for long trips. Here’s why so many choose a single over a twin.
A single-engine plane has fewer moving parts. That means less to break, less to repair, and easier inspections. Engines like the Lycoming and Continental series are proven to be durable and fuel-efficient. You can enjoy steady performance without doubling your maintenance bills.
Modern single-engine piston aircraft perform impressively. The Mooney M20 series, for example, is known for top speed and efficiency. Some models can reach over 240 knot in level flight! That’s serious speed for a single-propeller airplane.
With only one engine to manage, flight control is simpler. Pilots can focus more on navigation, weather, and fuel planning. Planes like the Cessna 172 are perfect trainers because they teach smooth control while offering reliable systems.
A well-designed piston aircraft can carry a decent payload — luggage, gear, and a few passengers — without sacrificing fuel range. Many Piper models balance weight and range beautifully, giving pilots confidence to go far with what they need.
Modern single-engine designs are safer than ever. Many include built-in backup systems and advanced warning alerts. The Cirrus SR22 even has its famous parachute system for emergencies.
Some long-range singles, such as turboprop models like the Lancair or Daher TBM, use turbine engines that boost efficiency and power at high altitudes. They combine the simplicity of one engine with the performance of small jets.
Choosing a single engine doesn’t mean giving up safety or performance. It means flying smarter, with technology and design that make travel easier and more enjoyable.
Distance in flying depends on three things: range, efficiency, and fuel management. Each airplane is different, but most single-engine planes built for long-haul travel can cover between 800 and 1,800 miles nonstop.
Range means how far a plane can fly before refueling. It depends on cruise speed, weather, and how much fuel is used each hour. For instance:
Speed matters too. The faster the plane, the shorter the time in the air — but speed also burns more fuel. Pilots look for balance. A high performance aircraft may cruise at 200–300 knots, while smaller piston models average closer to 140–180 knots.
Comfort counts when you’re in the air for six or seven hours. Features like cabin climate control, adjustable seats, and advanced avionics reduce pilot fatigue. Some aircraft even include optional weather radar and autopilot systems to make long flights feel easy.
Flying higher often means smoother air and better fuel burn. That’s why some planes can pressurize the cabin. Higher altitude flights are calmer and more efficient, especially for longer routes across the country.
Long-distance aviation demands good planning and safety tools. Built-in cockpit weather maps, traffic alerts, and reliable engines make all the difference. The Cirrus Airframe Parachute System is a standout feature that gives extra peace of mind on any route.
From workhorse trainers like the Cessna 172 to advanced travelers like the Lancair or Piper M350, today’s single-engine piston aircraft can take you across states, coasts, or even countries — safely and in style.
Flying long distances in a single engine piston aircraft is a special kind of freedom. These planes can take you across states or even the country without stopping often for fuel. The best ones are built to go far, stay efficient, and keep you comfortable along the way.
Below are nine of the best single-engine planes that can handle long-distance travel with ease. Each one has its own strengths — from speed and technology to cabin space and fuel economy.
| # | Model | Type (engine) | Approx Max Range | Approx Cruise/Top Speed | Notable Feature |
| 1 | Pilatus PC‑12 NGX | Single-engine turboprop | ~1,765 nm for 4 passengers (Pilatus Aircraft) | ~290 KTAS (Pilatus Aircraft) | Pressurized cabin, high ceiling (≈30 000 ft) |
| 2 | Daher TBM 960 | Single-engine turboprop | ~1,730 nm (Globalair.com) | Up to ~330 KTAS (Globalair.com) | Very fast single-engine machine |
| 3 | Piper M350 | Single-engine piston (turbocharged) | ~1,343 nm (muncieaviation) | ~213 KTAS (muncieaviation) | Pressurized cabin, modern piston aircraft |
| 4 | Beechcraft Bonanza G36 | Single-engine piston | ~920 nm (Beechcraft) | ~176 KTAS (Globalair.com) | Long-time reliable “workhorse” piston |
| 5 | Cirrus SR22T | Single-engine piston (turbocharged) | ~1,021 nm (Performance Flight) | ~213 KTAS (Performance Flight) | Modern tech + parachute system included |
| 6 | Cessna TTx | Single-engine piston | ~1,200 nm approx (varies) | ~235 KTAS approx | High-speed piston single from Cessna line |
| 7 | Cessna Skylane (182T) | Single-engine piston | ~915 nm approx | ~145 KTAS approx | Training and personal use favorite |
| 8 | Piper Cherokee | Single-engine piston | ~522 nm for some variants (Wikipedia) | ~128 KTAS approx (Wikipedia) | Very common, simple and very accessible |
| 9 | Comanche | Single-engine piston | ~1,050 nm approx | ~180 KTAS approx | Vintage but still interesting long-leg piston |
Here’s a deeper look at them one by one, in plain, friendly language.
The Beechcraft Bonanza has been flying for over seven decades, and it still earns respect. It’s known for being dependable and built with strong quality. Many pilots call it the “Cadillac of small airplanes” because it’s smooth, comfortable, and powerful.
The Bonanza can carry a good useful load, meaning you can take passengers and luggage without cutting into your fuel too much. It’s a great plane for long business trips or family travel.
Inside the cabin, you get roomy seating and top-tier materials. Its modern Garmin G1000 flight deck gives you bright screens, weather data, and flight management tools that make flying easier and safer. The Bonanza’s long history and strong safety record make it a trusted name for pilots who fly far and often.
The Cirrus SR22T is one of the most popular single-engine planes you can buy today. It’s sleek, fast, and full of smart technology. Many new pilots train in smaller models and dream of owning one someday.
The SR22T runs on a piston engine that’s turbocharged, meaning it performs well even at higher altitudes. It also features the famous whole-airplane parachute system, a key part of its excellent safety record.
The modern Garmin G1000 avionics suite adds digital flight control, synthetic vision, and advanced autopilot functions. This aircraft gives pilots pressurized comfort in the sense of controlled airflow, temperature, and cabin design—even without a full pressure system. It’s perfect for pilots who want high-performance flying with top safety and luxury.
The Cessna TTx is built for speed and long trips. It’s a piston single that feels like a mini sports car in the sky. Designed with composite materials, it’s both strong and aerodynamic.
The TTx’s Garmin G1000 flight deck provides full digital control, touchscreen navigation, and detailed weather awareness. It’s a high-performance airplane made for pilots who want fast, smooth travel.
The roomy cabin has a modern design and offers efficient heating and cooling for comfort on long flights. It runs on aviation gasoline, typically 100LL, which is widely available across the U.S. That makes refueling simple when you’re covering big distances.
The Cessna Skylane is a classic and reliable choice for both training and personal use. It’s simple to operate and has been a favorite for decades in flight school programs and private hangars alike.
The Skylane isn’t all flash — it also outputs steady performance. The newer models include advanced avionics, digital autopilot, and optional glass cockpit layouts. Its useful load allows you to bring plenty of gear or passengers without running short on power.
This aircraft is perfect for pilots who value stability, reliability, and easy handling on long trips. It’s one of the few airplanes that can be both a learning platform and a capable cross-country traveler.
The Turbo Stationair HD is Cessna’s family hauler and cargo mover. It’s strong, steady, and built to carry heavy loads over long distances.
With a turbocharged engine, it climbs quickly and handles mountain routes well. The big cabin doors make it easy to load gear, and the spacious interior offers real comfort for passengers.
It’s powered by a rugged piston engine that runs on 100LL fuel. The aircraft’s systems and structure are trusted in both commercial and private operations. Pilots appreciate its solid safety record and the flexibility to fly into short or rougher airstrips.
The Piper M350 brings luxury to the long-distance category. It’s one of the few pressurized piston planes you can buy new, offering quiet travel and reduced fatigue at high altitude.
This high-performance aircraft has pressurized comfort, meaning passengers can breathe easily and feel relaxed even above 20,000 feet. Its digital Garmin G1000 flight deck gives real-time monitoring and automation that reduce pilot workload.
The M350’s balance of speed, style, and safety makes it stand out. It’s ideal for owners who want business-class travel with single-pilot operation.
The Piper Cherokee is one of the great all-around airplanes for both beginners and seasoned pilots. It’s simple, affordable, and dependable for shorter long-distance flights.
While not the fastest, the Cherokee’s piston engine is efficient and easy to maintain. Many pilots learn in this aircraft during flight school, then continue to use it for personal flying.
Later models have digital displays, updated interiors, and smoother handling. For anyone looking for a friendly, low-stress aircraft, the Cherokee offers solid value and proven performance.
The Diamond DA40 is a modern composite airplane known for its sleek design and low fuel burn. It’s light, efficient, and one of the safest single-engine planes you can buy.
The DA40’s excellent safety record comes from its strong airframe and stability in flight. It’s ideal for both training and personal use, giving new pilots a confidence boost during their early long trips.
Its Garmin G1000 cockpit offers full electronic flight displays and autopilot options. The DA40 uses less fuel than most comparable piston singles, making it a smart, economical choice.
The Comanche is a vintage gem that still impresses modern pilots. It was one of Piper’s early high-performance airplanes and remains a favorite among collectors and long-distance fliers.
Powered by a piston engine, the Comanche blends classic design with strong cruising ability. It can carry a solid useful load, making it a practical choice for long hauls.
Even though it’s older, its handling and speed make it feel lively. Owners often upgrade with modern Garmin G1000 panels and better interiors, turning a classic aircraft into a capable traveler.
The Pilatus PC-12 NGX isn’t a piston plane—it’s a turboprop—but it deserves a mention. It can fly over 1,700 nautical miles with a top speed around 290 knots. The cabin is pressurized, spacious, and built for business-level comfort.
This aircraft uses Jet-A fuel instead of aviation gasoline, but it shares the same spirit as the others: efficient, reliable, and built for long journeys. The PC-12’s impressive power and durability make it a dream machine for serious long-range pilots.
Long-distance flying brings freedom that few experiences can match. The best single engine plane for long distance travel combines smart design, range, and comfort to make every flight smooth and rewarding. From the trusty Cessna and Piper lines to fast, sleek options like Mooney or Lancair, these planes prove that one engine can take you very far indeed.
These best single-engine planes offer something for every kind of flyer. If you’re dreaming about exploring the skies with your own airplane, these models combine endurance, technology, and comfort in the perfect mix. They show what modern aviation can offer — efficiency, safety, and the joy of flying made simple.
Looking to find the perfect plane for your next great trip? Visit Flying411 and start exploring your future in the skies today!
Most can travel 800 to 1,500 miles nonstop, depending on fuel size, engine type, and weather.
Yes. Many can climb above 10,000 feet easily. Some are pressurized for comfort at high altitude.
Top speeds range from 140 to 330 knots, depending on model and engine power.
Yes, with proper maintenance, training, and flight planning. Many models include advanced safety systems.
Most piston models use avgas. Turboprops may use Jet-A fuel for better efficiency.
