Are Small Planes Pressurized?

When it comes to smaller aircraft, such as general aviation planes, they are generally not pressurized. These planes typically fly at lower altitudes where the air pressure is sufficient for comfortable breathing. However, there are some exceptions, especially for aircraft designed to fly at higher altitudes.

Overview of Pressurization in Small Planes

The majority of small general aviation planes, like the Cessna 172 and Piper Cherokee, are non-pressurized. They operate at lower altitudes where the air pressure is adequate for passengers' comfort and safety. On the other hand, some small planes, such as certain models of business jets or turboprop aircraft, may be pressurized to ensure passenger comfort and safety at higher altitudes.

Examples of Pressurized Small Planes

There are a few notable examples of pressurized small planes. For instance, the Cessna P210, a 6-seat piston engine aircraft developed in the 1980s, is pressurized. Similarly, the Pilatus PC-12, a single-engine turbo prop plane, is also pressurized and can accommodate up to 6 to 8 passengers. Some high-performance home-built aircraft also feature pressurization.

The major factor against incorporating pressurized systems in small planes is cost and weight. Building and maintaining pressurized aircraft adds significant expenses and complexities. Therefore, most non-jet general aviation aircraft remain non-pressurized.

Historical Examples

Over two decades ago, Cessna produced the P-210, a 6-passenger pressurized aircraft capable of flying up to 18,000 feet without the need for oxygen. Many of these aircraft are still operational today. If you are willing to invest over $1 million, there are newer models made by Piper and others, such as the single-engine pressurized aircraft with piston or turboprop power plants.

Modern Pressurized Small Planes

While the number of pressurized small planes is relatively small, several examples are available in the market today. Examples include piston engines such as the Cessna P210, Mooney M22, and Piper PA-46 Malibu. Modern turboprop singles and twins, like the Piper Meridian, Socata TBM, and Pilatus PC-12, are also pressurized.

However, piston-engined pressurized planes have faced some challenges, such as issues with engine cooling, door seals, magnetos, and vacuum pumps. These challenges can be significant, making pressure systems more problematic compared to their non-pressurized counterparts.

Overall, while a small percentage of small planes are pressurized, the majority remain non-pressurized due to the high cost and technical complexities involved.