Piper PA-18 Super Cub Cost of Ownership: Bush Aircraft Operating Costs & Purchase Price
The Piper PA-18 Super Cub is the gold standard of bush aircraft—a legendary tailwheel airplane that has been taking pilots to remote wilderness strips for over 75 years. With an average purchase price around $112,600 and total annual operating costs under $19,000 at typical utilization, the Super Cub remains one of aviation's best values for serious backcountry flying. This guide breaks down every cost element to help you understand the true economics of Super Cub ownership.
Purchase Price
$112K–$245K
Pre-owned average
Fuel Burn
9 GPH
Economic cruise
Annual Fixed Costs
$6.5K–$8K
Hangar, insurance, inspection
Hourly Operating Cost
$75–$120
Direct operating cost
Piper Super Cub Purchase Price & Market Value
The Piper PA-18 Super Cub is a proven bush aircraft that has maintained value remarkably well. With average valuations around $112,600 and a typical market range of $115,000–$245,000, the Super Cub remains affordable compared to modern general aviation aircraft while commanding premium prices due to its proven bush-flying heritage.
Used Aircraft Pricing by Era
| Aircraft Era | Typical Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1950s–1960s (Original Models) | $80K–$120K | Heritage models; variable condition |
| 1970s–1980s (Established) | $110K–$160K | Mid-range models; proven reliability |
| 1990s–2000s (Modern Era) | $160K–$200K | Improved features; better condition |
| 2000s–2018 (Latest Production) | $200K–$245K | Final production aircraft; premium condition |
The Super Cub's legendary status as a bush aircraft means well-maintained examples hold their value well. Total flight hours, engine condition, and any recent upgrades (avionics, interior) significantly influence resale value in the active backcountry flying community.
Fuel Consumption & Operating Costs
The Piper PA-18-150 Super Cub is remarkably fuel-efficient for a tailwheel aircraft designed for rough-field work. The Lycoming O-320 engine burns 9 gallons per hour at 75% power cruise, translating to very economical operations for bush flying.
Fuel Burn at Different Power Settings
| Flight Phase | Fuel Burn (GPH) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Takeoff & Climb | ~14 GPH | Full throttle (brief duration) |
| Cruise (75% Power) | 9 GPH | Standard cruise setting |
| Economy Cruise | 7–8 GPH | Reduced power; slower speed |
| Descent & Approach | 4–5 GPH | Idle to light power |
Annual Fuel Costs by Utilization (Avgas @ $5.40/gal)
| Annual Flight Hours | Gallons/Year @ 9 GPH | Annual Fuel Cost | Per Hour Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 hours | 450 gal | $2,430 | $48.60 |
| 100 hours | 900 gal | $4,860 | $48.60 |
| 160 hours | 1,440 gal | $7,776 | $48.60 |
| 200 hours | 1,800 gal | $9,720 | $48.60 |
Engine Specifications & Maintenance Philosophy
The Piper PA-18-150 uses a proven, simple, and rugged Lycoming O-320 engine—one of aviation's most reliable powerplants. With a 2,000-hour time between overhaul, most bush flyers won't face an engine overhaul for 10–25 years of typical operation.
Engine Specifications
- Engine: Lycoming O-320-A2A (150 hp, 4-cylinder, air-cooled)
- Horsepower: 150 hp
- Fuel Type: 100LL Avgas
- Fuel Consumption: 9 GPH at 75% power
- TBO (Time Between Overhaul): 2,000 hours
- Engine Overhaul Cost: $10,000–$15,000
- Overhaul Reserve (per hour): $5–$7.50 at TBO
- Oil Cost: $3 per flying hour
- Annual Oil Changes: ~$250–$400
Annual Maintenance Breakdown
| Maintenance Item | Estimated Annual Cost | Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Inspection (Condition Insp.) | $400–$800 | Annually |
| Oil & Filter Changes | $250–$400 | Every 50 hours |
| Spark Plug Cleaning/Replacement | $100–$200 | Every 100 hours |
| Unexpected Repairs & Parts | $300–$800 | As needed |
| Engine Overhaul Reserve | $800–$1,200 | Buildup over TBO |
| Total Annual (100 hrs) | $1,850–$3,400 | Estimated |
Insurance Costs for the Piper Super Cub
Insurance for the Piper Super Cub is moderate, though tailwheel aircraft and bush-flying operations can impact premiums. Costs vary significantly based on pilot qualifications (tailwheel endorsement required) and whether you carry hull coverage.
Typical Annual Insurance Costs
| Coverage Type | Qualified Pilots | Less Qualified | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liability Only ($1M) | $500–$650 | $900–$1,142 | Basic coverage |
| Liability + $120K Hull | $1,310–$1,700 | $2,300–$2,900 | Comprehensive coverage |
Pilot Requirements: Qualified pilots have a Private Pilot license, 300+ total flight hours, 25+ tailwheel hours, and valid tailwheel endorsement. Less-qualified pilots and those in Alaska face higher premiums. Loss history in specific regions may affect availability of coverage.
Total Cost of Ownership: Piper Super Cub
The following tables show total annual operating costs at different utilization levels, assuming a $112,600 purchase price and standard owner-operator assumptions.
Scenario A: 100 Annual Flight Hours (Personal Bush Flying)
| Cost Category | Annual Cost | Per Flight Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed Costs | ||
| Hangar/Tiedown | $1,000 | $10 |
| Insurance (liability + $120K hull) | $1,500 | $15 |
| Annual Inspection & Maintenance | $600 | $6 |
| Engine Overhaul Reserve | $500 | $5 |
| Subtotal Fixed Costs | $3,600 | $36 |
| Variable Costs (@ 100 hours) | ||
| Fuel (900 gal @ $5.40/gal Avgas) | $4,860 | $48.60 |
| Oil & Filters | $300 | $3 |
| Spark Plugs & Routine Service | $150 | $1.50 |
| Unexpected Repairs & Misc. | $400 | $4 |
| Subtotal Variable Costs | $5,710 | $57.10 |
| Total Annual Operating Cost | $9,310 | $93.10 |
Scenario B: 160 Annual Flight Hours (Active Bush Operations)
| Cost Category | Annual Cost | Per Flight Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed Costs | ||
| Hangar/Tiedown | $1,000 | $6.25 |
| Insurance (liability + $120K hull) | $1,500 | $9.38 |
| Annual Inspection & Maintenance | $700 | $4.38 |
| Engine Overhaul Reserve | $1,000 | $6.25 |
| Subtotal Fixed Costs | $4,200 | $26.26 |
| Variable Costs (@ 160 hours) | ||
| Fuel (1,440 gal @ $5.40/gal Avgas) | $7,776 | $48.60 |
| Oil & Filters | $480 | $3 |
| Spark Plugs & Routine Service | $240 | $1.50 |
| Unexpected Repairs & Misc. | $640 | $4 |
| Subtotal Variable Costs | $9,136 | $57.10 |
| Total Annual Operating Cost | $13,336 | $83.36 |
Why Own a Piper Super Cub?
The Piper Super Cub represents the pinnacle of bush aircraft design—70+ years of proven performance in remote wilderness:
- ✈ Ultimate Bush Aircraft: Takeoff and land in 300 feet on rough terrain. No other aircraft combines ruggedness, capability, and proven heritage like the Cub.
- ✈ Legendary Reliability: Simple, proven Lycoming engine with 2,000-hour TBO. Many Cubs are still flying strong after 50+ years.
- ✈ Exceptional Value: At $112,600 average and $93–$83 per hour operating costs, the Super Cub is unbeatable for bush flying on a budget.
- ✈ Tailwheel Excellence: The sprung tailwheel absorbs rough-field punishment beautifully. Better than any tricycle-gear aircraft for backcountry ops.
- ✈ Strong Community: Massive community of bush pilots, operators, and parts suppliers. Excellent resale market for maintained aircraft.
- ✈ Simple & Repairable: Basic systems mean owner-maintenance and field repairs are feasible in remote locations.
- ✈ Forward Visibility: Tandem seating and bubble windows provide unmatched visibility for spotting terrain and landing zones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Piper Super Cub so popular for bush flying?
The Piper Super Cub is the ultimate bush aircraft for several reasons: its lightweight design (983 lbs empty), rugged tailwheel configuration, exceptional short-field performance (takeoff in 300 feet), and simple reliable engine. The tandem seating provides forward visibility, and the sprung-gear tailwheel handles rough strips exceptionally well. No other aircraft combines affordability, ruggedness, and proven bush-flying capability like the Super Cub.
How much does a Piper Super Cub cost to buy?
Used Piper PA-18 Super Cubs average $112,584 according to recent valuations, with a typical range of $115,000–$245,000 depending on year, condition, and engine configuration. Earlier models (1950s–1960s) cost $80,000–$120,000, while well-maintained later models (1980s–1990s) command $180,000–$240,000. The Super Cub has held value well due to its bush-flying legacy and continued utility.
What is the fuel consumption of a Piper Super Cub?
The Piper PA-18-150 burns 9 gallons per hour at 75% power cruise. This translates to about $48.60/hour in fuel costs at $5.40/gallon Avgas. Annual fuel costs at 100 hours would be approximately $4,860, or about $1,215 at 25 hours (very light use). The Super Cub's fuel efficiency is excellent for a tailwheel aircraft, especially considering its rugged construction.
What engine does the Piper Super Cub use and what is the TBO?
The Piper PA-18-150 uses a Lycoming O-320 150-hp engine with a 2,000-hour time between overhaul (TBO). Most owners won't face an overhaul for 13–25 years of typical recreational flying. Engine overhauls typically cost $10,000–$15,000, translating to roughly $5–$7.50 per flight hour when spread over the engine's life.
How much does insurance cost for a Piper Super Cub?
Insurance for a Piper Super Cub ranges from $500/year for liability-only coverage on experienced pilots to $2,900+/year for hull coverage on less-experienced pilots. Qualified pilots (Private license, 300+ hours, 25+ tailwheel hours) pay $1,310–$1,700/year for liability + $120K hull coverage. Less-qualified pilots pay $2,300–$2,900/year. Alaska-based aircraft cost more than those in the Lower 48 states.
What is the range and speed of the Piper Super Cub?
The Piper PA-18-150 cruises at 100 knots with a maximum range of 400 nautical miles. The 12.5-gallon fuel capacity provides about 1.5 hours of flight time. Service ceiling is 19,000 feet, though most bush flying occurs at much lower altitudes. The aircraft is designed for short-distance missions to remote strips, not long-distance cross-country travel.
Is the Piper Super Cub tail wheel only or available with tricycle gear?
The Piper PA-18-150 is a tailwheel aircraft—that's its defining characteristic and primary advantage for bush flying. The sprung-gear tailwheel absorbs rough-field landings beautifully. This tailwheel configuration does require specialized pilot training and tailwheel endorsement (25+ hours). If you prefer tricycle gear, consider a Cessna 172 or other certified tricycle-gear aircraft instead.
What are the annual fixed costs for Super Cub ownership?
Annual fixed costs for the Piper Super Cub total approximately $6,500–$8,000, including: hangar storage ($840–$1,800 per year), insurance ($500–$2,900), and annual inspection ($400–$800). Unlike some aircraft, the Super Cub is mechanically simple, so unexpected maintenance is rare. Oil costs are about $3/flying hour, making variable costs predictable and manageable.
Sources & Citations
- 1. PlanePhD - Piper PA-18-150 Valuation & Operating Costs: Current market valuations and annual operating cost data. https://planephd.com
- 2. Pilot Passion - How Much Does a Piper PA-18 Cost (2025): Comprehensive pricing and cost of ownership guide. https://pilotpassion.com
- 3. BWI Aviation Insurance - Piper Super Cub Insurance Costs: Detailed insurance premium breakdown and pilot qualification requirements. https://bwifly.com
- 4. AOPA - Piper Super Cub Aircraft Fact Sheet: Specifications and general information from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. https://www.aopa.org
- 5. Bolt Flight - Piper Super Cub Price and Operating Costs: Aircraft pricing and operating cost breakdown for 2024-2025. https://boltflight.com
Disclaimer: Aircraft prices and operating costs vary based on market conditions, individual aircraft condition, engine hours, and local factors. The figures presented represent industry averages and should be verified with actual aircraft brokers, insurers, and maintenance facilities before making a purchase decision. All cost data is current as of October 2025.
Ready to Finance Your Dream Aircraft?
Let Jaken Aviation help you secure competitive financing for your piston aircraft. Get started with a free consultation today.
Get Pre-Qualified Today