Cirrus Vision SF50 Cost of Ownership: Annual Operating Costs & Purchase Price
The Cirrus Vision SF50 represents a revolution in personal aviation—the world's first single-engine personal jet. With annual operating costs around $490,000–$550,000 and a purchase price near $1.6 million for pre-owned aircraft, it offers a compelling alternative to turboprops and light jets for owners willing to step into the jet world. This guide breaks down every cost element to help you understand what it truly costs to own and operate one of aviation's most innovative aircraft.
Purchase Price
$1.58M–$1.9M
Pre-owned average
Fuel Burn
73.8 GPH
Cruise (exceptional for a jet)
Annual Fixed Costs
$175K–$316K
@ 366.7–450 hrs/year
Hourly Operating Cost
$700–$859
Direct operating cost
Cirrus Vision SF50 Purchase Price & Market Value
The Cirrus Vision SF50 is priced between the high-end turboprops and entry-level jets, making it an attractive option for owners transitioning to jet ownership. According to PlanePhD valuations, pre-owned SF50 aircraft average $1.58–$1.9 million depending on model year and condition. New aircraft cost $2.75–$3 million from the factory.
Used Aircraft Pricing
| Model Year | Average Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2016–2018 | $1.2M–$1.4M | Early models; lower total hours |
| 2019–2021 | $1.5M–$1.7M | Mid-range market; avionics upgrades |
| 2022–2025 | $1.8M–$2.1M | Newest models; latest avionics |
Unlike some aircraft that depreciate rapidly, the SF50 has retained value reasonably well since production began in 2016. Total flight hours, maintenance records, and glass cockpit avionics packages significantly influence resale value.
Fuel Consumption & Fuel Costs
One of the Cirrus Vision SF50's key selling points is its exceptional fuel efficiency for a jet aircraft. The Williams International FJ33-5A turbofan burns approximately 73.8 gallons per hour—remarkably low for jet propulsion and comparable to some high-performance twin piston engines.
Fuel Burn at Different Power Settings
| Flight Phase | Fuel Burn (GPH) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Takeoff & Climb | ~150 GPH | Full throttle (brief duration) |
| Cruise (Typical) | 73.8 GPH | Economic cruise at 28,000 ft |
| High-Speed Cruise | 85–100 GPH | 300+ knots true airspeed |
| Descent & Approach | 15–30 GPH | Idle to light power |
Annual Fuel Costs by Utilization
| Annual Flight Hours | Gallons/Year | @ $5/gal | @ $6.50/gal |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 hours | 7,380 gal | $36,900 | $47,970 |
| 200 hours | 14,760 gal | $73,800 | $95,940 |
| 366.7 hours | 27,070 gal | $135,350 | $175,955 |
| 450 hours | 33,210 gal | $166,050 | $215,865 |
Engine Overhaul & Major Maintenance Reserve
The Cirrus Vision SF50 is powered by the Williams International FJ33-5A single-shaft turbofan engine—a marvel of modern engineering that powers no other aircraft. With a 4,000-hour time between overhaul (TBO) and 2,000-hour hot inspection interval, the SF50 offers excellent engine longevity compared to high-performance pistons.
Engine Specifications
- Engine: Williams International FJ33-5A turbofan
- Thrust: 2,050 lbf
- TBO (Time Between Overhaul): 4,000 hours
- Hot Inspection Interval: 2,000 hours
- Full Overhaul Cost: $650,000–$750,000
- Typical Reserve (per flight hour): $162–$187/hour
Most owners don't face an engine overhaul for 8–10 years of typical operation. However, building a maintenance reserve is critical. Using the standard $175/hour reserve for turbine overhauls, annual reserves at various utilization levels would be:
| Annual Hours | Annual Reserve | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 100 hours | $17,500 | Minimal reserve for light use |
| 200 hours | $35,000 | Moderate usage |
| 366.7 hours | $64,168 | Industry average utilization |
| 450 hours | $78,750 | Heavy owner-operator use |
Insurance Costs for the Cirrus Vision SF50
Aviation insurance for the Cirrus Vision SF50 reflects both the aircraft's value and the specialized training required to operate a jet. Insurance premiums vary based on pilot experience, total flight hours, and coverage limits.
Typical Annual Insurance Costs
| Pilot Experience | Annual Insurance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| High experience (1,500+ hrs) | $5,000–$8,000 | Preferred rates |
| Moderate (500–1,500 hrs) | $8,000–$12,000 | Standard coverage |
| Lower experience (< 500 hrs) | $12,000–$15,000 | Higher premiums; may require training |
New jet pilots may face higher insurance premiums and may be required to complete a formal type-rating and initial training course. Some insurers require a minimum 1,000 flight hours and multi-engine rating before insuring an SF50.
Maintenance Costs & Philosophy
Jet maintenance differs significantly from piston aircraft. Regular inspections, hot-section inspections, and condition-monitoring programs are standard. Maintenance reserves and annual fixed costs are considerably higher than for comparable high-performance pistons.
Annual Maintenance Breakdown
| Maintenance Item | Estimated Annual Cost | Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Inspection (Part 91) | $15,000–$25,000 | Annually |
| Engine Hot Section Inspection | $8,000–$15,000 | Every 2,000 hours |
| Routine Maintenance & Repairs | $30,000–$50,000 | As needed |
| Avionics/Glass Cockpit Service | $5,000–$10,000 | Periodic |
| Reserve for Major Overhauls | $64,000–$80,000 | Buildup over TBO |
| Total Annual (100 hrs) | $122,000–$180,000 | Estimated |
Total Cost of Ownership: Cirrus Vision SF50
The following tables break down the total annual operating cost at different utilization levels, assuming a $1.6 million purchase price and standard owner-operator assumptions.
Scenario A: 100 Annual Flight Hours (Personal/Weekend Use)
| Cost Category | Annual Cost | Per Flight Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed Costs | ||
| Hangar/Tiedown | $13,000 | $130 |
| Insurance | $8,000 | $80 |
| Annual Inspection & Maintenance | $22,000 | $220 |
| Engine Overhaul Reserve | $17,500 | $175 |
| Pilot Training & Currency | $8,000 | $80 |
| Subtotal Fixed Costs | $68,500 | $685 |
| Variable Costs (@ 100 hours) | ||
| Fuel (73.8 GPH × $5.50/gal) | $40,590 | $405.90 |
| Engine Maintenance | $8,000 | $80 |
| Airframe Maintenance & Repairs | $6,000 | $60 |
| Landing Fees & Fuel Surcharges | $2,500 | $25 |
| Subtotal Variable Costs | $57,090 | $570.90 |
| Total Annual Operating Cost | $125,590 | $1,255.90 |
Scenario B: 366.7 Annual Flight Hours (Typical Owner-Operator)
| Cost Category | Annual Cost | Per Flight Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed Costs | ||
| Hangar/Tiedown | $13,000 | $35.45 |
| Insurance | $10,000 | $27.27 |
| Annual Inspection & Maintenance | $25,000 | $68.14 |
| Engine Overhaul Reserve | $64,168 | $175 |
| Pilot Training & Currency | $8,000 | $21.82 |
| Subtotal Fixed Costs | $120,168 | $327.68 |
| Variable Costs (@ 366.7 hours) | ||
| Fuel (73.8 GPH × $5.50/gal) | $148,945 | $405.90 |
| Engine Maintenance | $25,000 | $68.14 |
| Airframe Maintenance & Repairs | $18,000 | $49.05 |
| Landing Fees & Fuel Surcharges | $7,334 | $20 |
| Subtotal Variable Costs | $199,279 | $543.09 |
| Total Annual Operating Cost | $319,447 | $870.77 |
Why Own a Cirrus Vision SF50?
Despite its significant operating costs, the Cirrus Vision SF50 offers unique advantages for owners willing to invest in jet travel:
- ✈ True Single-Engine Jet: The only single-engine personal jet on the market, combining jet speed and efficiency with simpler logistics than twin-engine jets.
- ✈ Exceptional Fuel Economy for a Jet: At 73.8 GPH, the SF50 burns significantly less fuel than competing light jets, directly reducing operating costs.
- ✈ Pressurization & High Altitude Capability: Fly above weather and traffic at 28,000 feet, enabling faster trips and better passenger comfort.
- ✈ 1,200 NM Range: Sufficient for coast-to-coast travel with reserves, or multiple regional missions on a single fuel load.
- ✈ Proven Track Record: Since 2016, the SF50 has accumulated thousands of flight hours with strong safety and reliability records.
- ✈ 6-Seat Capacity: Carry meaningful payloads with 6 passengers plus full fuel, or reduce weight to optimize range.
- ✈ Innovation & Prestige: Own a revolutionary aircraft that represents the cutting edge of personal aviation technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Cirrus Vision SF50 really the cheapest jet to operate?
The Cirrus Vision SF50 is significantly more affordable than traditional turboprops and jets. With annual operating costs around $490,000–$550,000, it's one of the most economical personal jets available. However, it's still substantially more expensive than conventional piston aircraft. The SF50's single Williams FJ33-5A turbofan engine and efficient fuel consumption help keep costs lower than competing light jets from Embraer, Cessna, or HondaJet.
What is the purchase price of a used Cirrus Vision SF50?
Pre-owned Cirrus Vision SF50 aircraft average $1.58–$1.9 million according to recent valuation data. New aircraft cost $2.75–$3 million. Market prices vary based on model year, total flight hours, avionics package, and maintenance history. The SF50 has held value reasonably well since production began in 2016, though like all aircraft, pre-owned models depreciate.
How much fuel does a Cirrus Vision SF50 burn?
The Cirrus Vision SF50 burns approximately 73.8 gallons per hour at cruise power settings. This is exceptionally efficient for a jet aircraft—roughly comparable to some high-performance piston twins. At $6/gallon jet fuel costs, hourly fuel expense runs about $443. Annual fuel costs at 366.7 hours annually would be approximately $162,000.
What is the engine overhaul cost for the SF50?
The Cirrus Vision SF50 is powered by the Williams International FJ33-5A turbofan with a 4,000-hour time between overhaul (TBO). Engine overhauls cost approximately $650,000–$750,000, which represents a significant reserve. However, because of the 4,000-hour TBO, most owners won't face an overhaul for 8–10 years of typical operation.
How much does insurance cost for a Cirrus Vision SF50?
Annual insurance for a Cirrus Vision SF50 typically costs $5,000–$15,000 depending on pilot experience, total flight hours, use (personal vs. business), and coverage limits. Some comprehensive cost analyses budget $35,000 annually for insurance and pilot salary combined. Insurance requirements vary by owner experience—new jet pilots may face higher premiums initially.
What is the mission range of the Cirrus Vision SF50?
The Cirrus Vision SF50 has a maximum range of 1,200 nautical miles with reserves. This makes it ideal for coast-to-coast travel in the continental U.S. with fuel reserves. Useful load is approximately 1,170 pounds (including fuel, pilots, and passengers), which allows for 5–6 occupants plus full fuel for typical missions.
Is the Cirrus Vision SF50 pressurized?
Yes, the Cirrus Vision SF50 is fully pressurized, allowing operation up to 28,000 feet above ground level. The pressurized cabin and high-altitude capability enable flight over weather systems and mountainous terrain, and provide faster cruising speeds at altitude. Cruise speed is approximately 300 knots at economic cruise power.
What are the annual fixed costs for SF50 ownership?
Annual fixed costs for the Cirrus Vision SF50 total approximately $175,000–$316,000, depending on utilization assumptions. These include hangar rental ($13,000–$20,000), insurance ($5,000–$35,000), pilot training and proficiency ($5,000–$15,000), maintenance reserves, and management fees if using a management company. Fixed costs are largely independent of how much you fly.
Sources & Citations
- 1. PlanePhD Aircraft Valuation & Cost Data: Comprehensive Cirrus Vision SF50 pricing, specifications, and operating costs. Accessed October 2025. https://planephd.com
- 2. Aircraft Cost Calculator - Cirrus Vision SF50 Operating Costs: Detailed breakdown of annual costs, fuel consumption, and maintenance reserves. https://www.aircraftcostcalculator.com
- 3. Simple Flying - Cirrus Vision Jet Operating Costs: Analysis of annual ownership costs and hourly operating expenses for the SF50. https://simpleflying.com
- 4. SF50 Flight Support LLC - SF50 Cost of Operations: Direct answers from SF50 flight training and support specialists on operating costs and maintenance requirements. https://www.sf50flightsupport.com
- 5. Pilot Passion - Cirrus Aircraft Cost Guide: Comprehensive pricing and cost of ownership information for Cirrus aircraft including the Vision SF50. https://pilotpassion.com
Disclaimer: Aircraft prices and operating costs fluctuate based on market conditions, fuel prices, and engine reserve requirements. The figures presented represent industry averages and should be verified with actual quotes from brokers, maintenance facilities, and insurance providers before making a purchase decision. All cost data is current as of October 2025.
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