How Much Does A Beechcraft C23 Sundowner Cost?

The renowned Beechcraft C23 Sundowner is a widely favored single-engine, piston-powered airplane which is part of the Beechcraft Musketeer family. I’ve researched the ownership and operating costs associated with this remarkable aircraft.

What does a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner cost? A second-hand model (manufactured between 1963 and 1980) ranges from approximately $34,000 to $95,000. The total annual cost of ownership, excluding depreciation but accounting for expenses such as insurance, maintenance, and hangar fees, comes to roughly $12,955. The variable cost per flying hour, based on 100 flying hours, is approximately $50.

Why the Beechcraft C23 Sundowner is a Great Plane

Novice private pilots frequently consider investing in a pre-owned Beechcraft C23 Sundowner due to its relatively affordable price, fuel efficiency, and user-friendly handling characteristics. The Beechcraft C23 Sundowner is an impressive aircraft with the capacity to transport up to four passengers, including the pilot.

In this article, we will delve into the total cost of ownership and explore various financing options for acquiring a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner.

Cost of Purchasing a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner

Price ranges for used Beechcraft C23 Sundowner models released between 1963 and 1980 typically vary from $34,000 to $95,000, depending on the aircraft’s age and condition.

The Beechcraft C23 Sundowner is a highly popular aircraft, thanks to its affordability, reliability, and easy availability. With a production run that began in 1963 and continued until 1983, there are numerous options in the market catering to various budgets.

Depending on factors such as the age, condition, and location of the aircraft, prices can significantly vary. However, a decent condition Beechcraft C23 Sundowner typically costs around $34,000, and they tend to sell quickly once listed.

Ownership Costs of a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner

Purchasing a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner is just the beginning of your financial commitments, as you will also need to cover fixed and variable running costs. The total annual cost of ownership amounts to approximately $12,955, with fixed costs around $4,155 and variable costs, assuming 100 annual flying hours, reaching $8,800.

Depreciation costs are harder to estimate, as they depend on numerous factors unique to your specific circumstances.

At PilotPassion, we strive to provide the most engaging and relevant aviation content, tailored for aviation enthusiasts and student private pilots like ourselves.

We have created this guide to help you better understand the costs associated with owning and operating a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner, saving you time and effort in searching for accurate information.

Owning an airplane, such as the Beechcraft C23 Sundowner, comes with various fixed and variable costs that beginners may not be aware of. This holds true for all types of aircraft.

When purchasing a new or used Beechcraft outright, financing costs won’t be a concern. However, if procuring a loan for the purchase, it’s essential to budget for interest repayment costs.

Want to discover the best small aircraft? Check out our article.

What Are the Fixed Costs for Beechcraft C23 Sundowner Ownership?

Fixed costs of aircraft ownership refer to the expenses incurred regardless of whether the plane is flown. For instance, even if you buy a C23 Sundowner and never use it, you’ll still need to cover costs such as the one-time purchase price, hangar fees at the aerodrome, insurance premiums, and annual inspection fees. The total fixed costs amount to approximately $4,155.

Another factor to consider is the depreciation of your aircraft’s value as an asset. Numerous variables can affect depreciation, including age, purchase price, resale value, and market conditions. Although we cannot provide an exact figure, it’s crucial to be aware of this aspect.

To sufficiently prepare for the annual inspection, expect to pay for any required maintenance needed to pass the evaluation. While some may categorize these expenses as variable costs, it’s more accurate to consider them fixed costs since they are likely necessary regardless of the aircraft’s usage.

Additionally, don’t forget to account for regular subscriptions you might be paying for, such as weather services or ForeFlight.

Hangar Costs for a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner

Hangar expenses for a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner can vary significantly based on factors such as location and the type of storage facility.

In the United States, you can find hangar spaces for as low as $70 per month, although, for better facilities and security, you may prefer to pay a higher amount. Alternatively, you might have the option to build or purchase your own hangar instead of renting one.

How much does insurance cost for a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner?

Owning and flying a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner may be more affordable than you imagine when it comes to insurance costs. Similar to hangar fees, insurance rates depend on various factors, including location, flight frequency, aircraft value, and the type of coverage.

By considering these elements, you can understand the insurance costs associated with a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner. Insurance pricing for aircraft varies significantly due to numerous factors. It’s advisable to shop around, as you may find a lower rate.

However, keep in mind that these lower rates usually only provide liability-only coverage, which does not cover damage or loss to the aircraft itself, but protects against damage or injury to third parties. The primary determinant of the cost to insure a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner is the airplane’s valuation.

The annual cost to insure a preowned Beechcraft C23 Sundowner is approximately $1,350.

How much is an annual inspection for a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner?

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandates that aircraft undergo an annual inspection. The cost for an annual inspection of a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner is around $1,100.

Additionally, it’s essential to ensure that all parts are in proper working order and that oil and other fluids are topped off as required. The fixed maintenance costs, including the annual inspection, amount to approximately $4,155 each year.

What Are the Variable Costs for Beechcraft C23 Sundowner Ownership?

Owning a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner entails variable costs such as fuel, oil, unscheduled maintenance, and miscellaneous expenses (landing fees, parking, minor travel costs). On average, these expenses amount to approximately $8,800 annually.

The variable cost per flight hour is estimated to be around $88. It is essential to note that these figures are only approximations, as actual costs may vary for each Model 23 owner. Over time, annual variable costs might increase as the plane is subject to more wear and tear. Unlike fixed costs, variable costs apply only when the aircraft is in operation.

Beechcraft C23 Sundowner Fuel Costs

The Beechcraft C23 Sundowner operates on aviation gasoline (avgas), which costs approximately $50 per hour of flight. Presently, the avgas price is around $5 per gallon, and the C23 Sundowner consumes 9.5 gallons per hour.

It is essential to compare avgas prices at various airports, as they can vary based on location and traffic.

Beechcraft C23 Sundowner Oil

For those with technical expertise, performing your own oil changes can result in substantial savings on labor costs. Regular maintenance of your Beechcraft C23 Sundowner is critical for optimal performance and longevity.

If you don’t cover the costs yourself, you’ll have to pay for labor, oil, and filters. I’ve determined that oil expenses for a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner usually amount to around $3 per running hour.

Beechcraft C23 Sundowner Engine Maintenance Costs

Approximately every 2,000 hours, a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner’s engine requires an overhaul. The cost to overhaul an airplane engine can escalate quickly due to factors such as the engine’s condition, age, and hours of wear and tear.

Since safety is of utmost importance, this maintenance step is crucial. During the overhaul, the engine is disassembled, and each component is carefully inspected. This process includes examining the pistons, bearings, cylinders, and other engine parts. Repairs or replacements are conducted as needed.

As an engine accumulates more flight hours, the frequency of complete overhauls increases. Now that we’ve discussed fixed and variable costs, let’s explore how to afford a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner!

Financing Options for Purchasing a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner

There are several financing alternatives available for acquiring a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner, as I have friends who own this type of aircraft. One option is to secure a loan from a bank or financial institution.

Leasing the aircraft is another possibility, allowing you to use it for a set period before returning it or even purchasing it at the end of the lease term.

Consider buying a share in a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner with a trusted group of individuals. This enables you to enjoy the benefits of aircraft ownership while sharing costs and responsibilities.

When considering the purchase of a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner, it is essential to thoroughly review all terms and conditions before signing any agreement. Be aware of the full terms and potential costs you may be responsible for.

Taking out a loan for a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner

One option to finance your Beechcraft C23 Sundowner is applying for a conventional loan from a bank or credit union. If you possess a high credit score and a strong financial history, this could be a smart choice. Another alternative is opting for a loan specifically designed for aircraft financing.

These loans often provide more flexible terms and may be more willing to work with individuals with less-than-perfect credit.

Practical advice: Prior to selecting a lender, it is highly recommended to shop around and compare rates and terms from multiple lenders. Carefully analyze your financial situation and ensure that you can comfortably afford the loan payments.

Leasing

For individuals who prefer not to commit to purchasing an aircraft outright, leasing a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner presents a convenient and cost-effective financing solution. By leasing a plane, you enter into an agreement to use the aircraft for a predetermined period—usually spanning several years—in exchange for a fixed monthly payment.

At the end of the lease term, you have two options: return the aircraft to the owner, or potentially purchase it for an agreed-upon sum. Opt for either a wet lease (which includes a pilot) or a dry lease (solely the aircraft), with the latter being a more common choice.

It’s advisable to thoroughly research and compare leasing options from various providers. Lease agreements can contain extensive paperwork; therefore, carefully review the fine print. As with loans, consider your ability to consistently make payments throughout the lease’s duration.

Buying a Share in a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner

Purchasing a share in an aircraft allows you to own a fraction of the plane and operate it in collaboration with other partial owners. This option may serve as a sensible alternative to full ownership or long-term leasing for those who require access to an aircraft. 

Often referred to as ‘shared ownership’ or ‘fractional ownership,’ this innovative approach allows individuals or organizations to own a portion of an aircraft, typically beginning with an initial investment. Following the initial purchase, ongoing maintenance and operational expenses are shared amongst the aircraft’s owners.

Local flying clubs commonly facilitate or arrange such opportunities, familiarizing many aspiring pilots with the concept of owning a share in aircraft models like the Beechcraft C23 Sundowner.

Fractional ownership offers the significant benefits of aircraft ownership without the need for an outright purchase, making it accessible and affordable to a wider audience.

This arrangement enables owners to divide not only the initial acquisition cost but also the subsequent maintenance and operational expenses amongst themselves. The extent of access and responsibility for each owner largely depends on the size of their individual shares.

Individuals seeking to fly for personal or professional purposes, yet lack the finances or necessity to own a plane outright, may find fractional ownership an attractive option. Similarly, businesses requiring regular aircraft access without the burden of full ownership can also benefit from this cost-effective alternative.

Fractional ownership presents a practical solution for those wishing to experience the advantages of owning an aircraft at a fraction of the cost.

Beechcraft Musketeer (Sundowner model) Specifications

Manufacturer: Beechcraft Corporation
Model: Beechcraft C23 Sundowner
First flight: 1968 (as Musketeer III)
Production years: 1972-1983 (as C23 renamed to the Sundowner)
Role: Light, single-engine piston aircraft
Seating capacity: 4 passengers (including pilot)
Engine: 1 x Lycoming O-360-A4K air-cooled, horizontally-opposed piston engine
Horsepower: 180 hp (134 kW)
Wingspan: 32 ft 9 in (9.98 m)
Length: 25 ft 11 in (7.90 m)
Height: 7 ft 9 in (2.36 m)
Maximum speed: 141 mph (227 km/h)
Cruise speed: 130 mph (209 km/h)
Range: 600 miles (966 km)
Service ceiling: 13,000 ft (3,962 m)
Rate of climb: 800 ft/min (4.06 m/s)
Wing loading: 16.5 lb/ft² (80.5 kg/m²)
Power/mass: 0.09 hp/lb (0.15 kW/kg)
Fixed tricycle landing gear configuration
Known for: Ease of operation, comfortable cabin, and reliability for personal and training use

Final Thoughts

The overall cost of owning a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner or any other aircraft can be quite expensive. However, the value of such an investment is subjective.

If flying is your passion and it fits within your budget, then investing in a plane like the C23 Sundowner can be truly rewarding. In comparison to other aircraft, its operating expenses are fairly reasonable.

Based on calculations, the total hourly cost for a C23 Sundowner, including fixed and variable expenditures, comes to around $130. The variable expenses, which encompass fuel, oil, and maintenance, account for approximately $88 per hour.

Many novice private pilots opt to rent a Beechcraft C23 Sundowner, as it may be more financially viable for them. Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific circumstances and preferences.

With that said, we wish you safe and enjoyable flying!