Tecnam P2008 Cost of Ownership: LSA Operating Costs & Purchase Price
The Tecnam P2008 stands at the forefront of Light Sport Aircraft design, offering an exceptional combination of affordability, efficiency, and modern technology. With a purchase price around $130,000–$180,000 for quality used models and fuel consumption of just 4.5 gallons per hour, it represents one of the most economical aircraft to own and operate. This comprehensive guide breaks down every cost element to help you understand the true expenses of ownership.
Purchase Price
$130K–$180K
Pre-owned average
Fuel Burn
4.5 GPH
Exceptionally low
Annual Fixed Costs
$3K–$4K
Hangar, insurance, inspection
Hourly Operating Cost
$30–$45
Direct operating cost
Tecnam P2008 Purchase Price & Market Value
The Tecnam P2008 offers exceptional value as a modern Light Sport Aircraft. New models cost approximately $155,000–$170,000 from the factory, while quality pre-owned aircraft range from $80,000 for older models up to $200,000+ for newer, well-equipped examples. Most buyers find good quality used P2008s between $130,000–$180,000.
Used Aircraft Pricing
| Model Year | Typical Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2010–2014 | $80K–$120K | Older models; varying avionics |
| 2015–2018 | $120K–$150K | Mid-range; improved avionics |
| 2019–2023 | $150K–$190K | Newer models; modern glass cockpits |
| 2024–2025 | $160K–$210K | Newest models; latest avionics |
The Tecnam P2008 holds value reasonably well due to its modern design, quality construction, and popularity in flight schools and LSA communities. Condition, total time on engine/airframe, and glass cockpit upgrades significantly influence resale value.
Fuel Consumption & Operating Costs
The Tecnam P2008's greatest strength is its exceptional fuel efficiency. The Rotax 912ULS engine burns only 4.5 gallons per hour at cruise—among the lowest fuel consumption rates in general aviation. This translates to remarkably low hourly and annual fuel costs.
Fuel Burn at Different Power Settings
| Flight Phase | Fuel Burn (GPH) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Takeoff & Climb | ~8 GPH | Full throttle (brief duration) |
| Cruise (Economic) | 4.5 GPH | Standard cruise power |
| Descent & Approach | 2–3 GPH | Idle to light power |
Annual Fuel Costs by Utilization (Avgas @ $5.50/gal)
| Annual Flight Hours | Gallons/Year | Annual Fuel Cost | Per Hour Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 hours | 225 gal | $1,238 | $24.75 |
| 100 hours | 450 gal | $2,475 | $24.75 |
| 200 hours | 900 gal | $4,950 | $24.75 |
| 300 hours | 1,350 gal | $7,425 | $24.75 |
Mogas (Automotive Fuel) Option: Many P2008 owners use automotive fuel (available for $3–$4 per gallon from approved aviation suppliers), cutting fuel costs in half compared to Avgas. At $3.50/gallon Mogas, annual fuel costs at 100 hours would drop to just $1,575.
Engine Overhaul & Maintenance Reserve
The Tecnam P2008 is powered by the Rotax 912ULS four-cylinder, four-stroke engine—a proven design with excellent durability and reliability. The engine has a 2,000-hour time between overhaul (TBO) or 15-year limit, whichever comes first.
Engine Specifications
- Engine: Rotax 912ULS four-cylinder, four-stroke
- Horsepower: 100 hp
- Fuel Type: Avgas or Mogas (flex-fuel capable)
- TBO (Time Between Overhaul): 2,000 hours (or 15 years)
- Full Engine Overhaul Cost: $12,000–$14,000
- Gearbox Overhaul: $450–$850
- 5-Year Rubber Replacement: $2,500–$4,000
- Annual Overhaul Reserve (100 hrs): $600–$700
Most owners won't face a full overhaul for 13–20 years of typical operation. The Rotax 912ULS is known for exceeding its TBO with proper maintenance. Gearbox overhauls are much more affordable than major engine work, and rubber component replacement every five years is routine preventive maintenance.
Annual Maintenance Reserve by Utilization
| Annual Hours | Annual Reserve | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 50 hours | $300–$350 | Minimal reserve for light use |
| 100 hours | $600–$700 | Typical personal use |
| 200 hours | $1,200–$1,400 | Moderate utilization |
| 300 hours | $1,800–$2,100 | Heavy personal use |
Insurance Costs for the Tecnam P2008
One of the major cost advantages of LSA ownership is significantly lower insurance premiums compared to certified aircraft. The P2008's lower speed (128 knots cruise), simpler systems, and established safety record contribute to reasonable insurance costs.
Typical Annual Insurance Costs
| Pilot Experience | Annual Insurance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sport Pilot (minimal hours) | $900–$1,200 | Higher rates for new pilots |
| Sport Pilot (50+ hours) | $600–$900 | Preferred rates |
| Private Pilot (1,000+ hours) | $500–$800 | Lowest rates |
LSA insurance is typically $600–$1,200 per year depending on pilot experience and coverage limits. This is substantially lower than comparable certified singles, making LSA ownership one of the most affordable entry points into aircraft ownership.
Maintenance Costs & Inspection Philosophy
The Tecnam P2008 is known for low maintenance requirements due to its simple, proven Rotax engine design and modern composite/metal construction. Annual inspections are straightforward, and unexpected repairs are relatively rare.
Annual Maintenance Breakdown
| Maintenance Item | Estimated Annual Cost | Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Inspection (LSA) | $2,000–$3,000 | Annually |
| 100-Hour Inspection (if applicable) | $1,500–$2,000 | Every 100 hours |
| Oil Changes & Routine Service | $300–$500 | Per 50 hours |
| Unexpected Repairs & Parts | $500–$1,500 | As needed |
| Reserve for Major Components | $600–$700 | Overhaul buildup |
| Total Annual (Light Use) | $3,000–$4,500 | Estimated |
Total Cost of Ownership: Tecnam P2008
The following tables show total annual operating costs at different utilization levels, assuming a $150,000 purchase price and standard owner-operator assumptions.
Scenario A: 100 Annual Flight Hours (Typical Personal Use)
| Cost Category | Annual Cost | Per Flight Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed Costs | ||
| Hangar/Tiedown | $1,200 | $12 |
| Insurance | $700 | $7 |
| Annual Inspection & Maintenance | $2,500 | $25 |
| Engine Overhaul Reserve | $650 | $6.50 |
| Subtotal Fixed Costs | $5,050 | $50.50 |
| Variable Costs (@ 100 hours) | ||
| Fuel (450 gal @ $5.50/gal Avgas) | $2,475 | $24.75 |
| Oil Changes & Servicing | $300 | $3 |
| Repairs & Unexpected Parts | $500 | $5 |
| Landing Fees & Misc. | $200 | $2 |
| Subtotal Variable Costs | $3,475 | $34.75 |
| Total Annual Operating Cost | $8,525 | $85.25 |
Scenario B: 200 Annual Flight Hours (Active Personal Use)
| Cost Category | Annual Cost | Per Flight Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed Costs | ||
| Hangar/Tiedown | $1,200 | $6 |
| Insurance | $700 | $3.50 |
| Annual Inspection & Maintenance | $2,500 | $12.50 |
| Engine Overhaul Reserve | $1,300 | $6.50 |
| Subtotal Fixed Costs | $5,700 | $28.50 |
| Variable Costs (@ 200 hours) | ||
| Fuel (900 gal @ $5.50/gal Avgas) | $4,950 | $24.75 |
| Oil Changes & Servicing | $600 | $3 |
| Repairs & Unexpected Parts | $800 | $4 |
| Landing Fees & Misc. | $400 | $2 |
| Subtotal Variable Costs | $6,750 | $33.75 |
| Total Annual Operating Cost | $12,450 | $62.25 |
Why Own a Tecnam P2008?
The Tecnam P2008 offers outstanding value and exceptional operating economics for personal aviators:
- ✈ Exceptional Fuel Economy: 4.5 GPH makes it one of the most economical aircraft in aviation—fuel costs are negligible compared to certified aircraft.
- ✈ Low Insurance Costs: LSA aircraft typically have insurance premiums 50-75% lower than comparable certified singles.
- ✈ Simplified Maintenance: The proven Rotax engine requires minimal maintenance compared to traditional aircraft engines.
- ✈ Sport Pilot Eligible: Fly with a Sport Pilot certificate—no medical exam required and simpler training requirements.
- ✈ Modern Design & Handling: Sleek composite construction and responsive flight characteristics make the P2008 enjoyable to fly.
- ✈ Mogas Capability: Use automotive fuel to cut costs in half—a unique advantage among LSA aircraft.
- ✈ Affordable Entry Point: The P2008 costs a fraction of certified aircraft, making ownership accessible to middle-income aviators.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tecnam P2008 really an LSA?
Yes, the Tecnam P2008 is certified as a Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) in the United States under FAA Special Light-Sport Aircraft rules. This means it can be flown with a Sport Pilot license (simpler to obtain than a Private Pilot certificate) or by Private Pilots with a category/class rating. The aircraft meets all ASTM standards for LSA certification.
What is the purchase price of a Tecnam P2008?
New Tecnam P2008 aircraft cost approximately $155,000–$170,000+ depending on avionics options and features. Pre-owned aircraft range from $80,000 for older models to $200,000+ for newer, well-equipped examples. Average used prices fall between $130,000–$180,000 depending on year, total hours, and condition.
How much fuel does the Tecnam P2008 burn?
The Tecnam P2008 burns approximately 4.5 gallons per hour at cruise power—exceptionally low for any general aviation aircraft. At $5.50/gallon avgas, hourly fuel cost is only $24.75. Annual fuel costs at 100 hours would be just $2,475, and at 200 hours only $4,950. This makes it one of the most economical aircraft to operate.
How much does a Rotax 912 engine overhaul cost?
A Rotax 912ULS engine overhaul costs approximately $12,000–$14,000, including a new crankshaft. The engine has a 2,000-hour TBO (or 15-year limit, whichever comes first), meaning most owners won't face an overhaul for 10–15 years of typical operation. Annual overhaul reserve at 100 hours would be approximately $600–$700.
What is the service ceiling and maximum range of the P2008?
The Tecnam P2008 has a service ceiling of 14,000 feet and a maximum range of 514 nautical miles. This makes it suitable for regional cross-country flights within a 200-250 NM radius, or ferry flights with planning and reserves. With a 32-gallon fuel capacity and 4.5 GPH consumption, you'll have over 7 hours of endurance.
How much does insurance cost for a Tecnam P2008?
Insurance for the Tecnam P2008 typically costs $600–$1,200 per year, depending on pilot experience and coverage limits. LSA aircraft generally have lower insurance premiums than certified general aviation aircraft due to their lower speeds and less complex systems. New pilots or higher-risk profiles may pay toward the upper end of this range.
What are the inspection and maintenance costs?
The Tecnam P2008 has notably low maintenance costs. A 100-hour inspection typically runs $1,500, while an annual inspection averages around $2,000. Beyond these inspections, routine maintenance is minimal due to the simple Rotax engine design. Gearbox overhauls cost $450–$850, and 5-year rubber component replacement runs $2,500–$4,000.
Can the Tecnam P2008 use automotive fuel?
Yes, the Tecnam P2008 is flex-fuel capable and can operate on either Avgas or Mogas (unleaded automotive gasoline). Using automotive fuel (typically $3–$4 per gallon) instead of Avgas ($6–$7) can cut fuel costs in half. However, not all fuel sources are approved for aviation use, so you'll need to source automotive fuel from approved aviation suppliers.
Sources & Citations
- 1. Tecnam Official - P2008 LSA Aircraft: Official specifications, fuel consumption, and performance data for the Tecnam P2008. https://tecnam.com
- 2. GlobalAir.com - Tecnam P2008 Specifications: Detailed aircraft specifications including fuel consumption, performance, and market pricing. https://www.globalair.com
- 3. AOPA - Tecnam P2008 Aircraft Guide: Comprehensive aircraft guide and ownership information from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. https://www.aopa.org
- 4. Rotax Owner - Direct Operating Cost of Rotax 912: Detailed analysis of Rotax 912 engine overhaul costs, maintenance reserves, and operating expenses. https://www.rotax-owner.com
- 5. Aviation Consumer - Tecnam P2008 Review: In-depth aircraft review and analysis of operating costs and ownership considerations. https://aviationconsumer.com
Disclaimer: Aircraft prices and operating costs vary based on local market conditions, fuel prices, and maintenance practices. The figures presented are industry estimates and should be verified with actual quotes from brokers, mechanics, and insurance providers 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