American Champion Super DecathlonPhoto: Adrian Pingstone · Public domain
Indicative 2025 market price€304k€363k
Estimated annual cost at 80 h€31k
Five-year cash outlay€485k

Key figures

Indicative planning data, compiled 2026-07. Verify against the AFM and records.

Seats2
Realistic payload with mission fuel185 kg
Advertised range470 nm
Practical planning radius (4 people)315 nm
Cruise speed128 kt
Runway need~360 m
PressurisedNo
FuelAvgas 100LL
Fixed annual base€17k
Direct cost per flight hour175

The ownership trade-off

A capable and durable aerobatic trainer, but baggage, range and everyday travel comfort are limited.

Cost picture at different usage

  • 40 hours/year: about €24k per year ( €600 per flight hour all-in)
  • 80 hours/year: about €31k per year ( €388 per flight hour all-in)
  • 120 hours/year: about €38k per year ( €317 per flight hour all-in)
  • 180 hours/year: about €49k per year ( €269 per flight hour all-in)

Older examples add calendar-driven maintenance: a 2011-built airframe is estimated at €37k per year at 80 hours. Condition, engine time remaining and avionics matter more than the year itself — price the aircraft in front of you, not the model.

Where it fits well

  • 128 kt cruise supports efficient local and regional flying.
  • 470 nm advertised range creates a practical planning radius of about 338 nm with 2 occupants.
  • 185 kg realistic payload proxy and 2 seats define the usable cabin mission.

Limitations to price honestly

  • A capable and durable aerobatic trainer, but baggage, range and everyday travel comfort are limited.
  • €17k fixed annual planning base before flying a single hour.
  • Approximate 360 m take-off requirement must be checked against runway, surface, slope, temperature and loading.

Recommended missions

  • Solo or two-person flying where low complexity matters more than cabin capacity.
  • Short and medium regional trips, accepting fuel stops when conditions require.
  • Recreational, training or personal travel where operating efficiency is more important than airline-like speed.

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