Beech Bonanza 36

Single Piston· 2,533 globally registered

The Beechcraft Bonanza 36 is the straight-tail evolution of one of general aviation's most iconic designs, first introduced in 1968 as a stretched, six-seat variant of the original V-tail Model 35. Unlike its distinctive V-tail sibling, the Model 36 features a conventional empennage and a cabin extended 18 inches aft of the wing, offering genuine utility for families and small cargo missions. Powered by a Continental IO-520 or IO-550 engine producing 285 to 300 horsepower, the A36 cruises at 170 knots and climbs at over 1,000 feet per minute, making it one of the fastest and most capable single-engine piston aircraft ever produced. The type has remained in continuous production for over five decades, a testament to its blend of speed, comfort, and docile handling characteristics. The Bonanza 36 family includes the turbocharged B36TC variant, which extends service ceiling to 25,000 feet and maintains cruise performance at high-density altitudes where naturally aspirated engines struggle. The type's sturdy construction, retractable landing gear, and club seating configuration have made it a favorite among owner-pilots who demand cross-country capability without stepping up to a twin. Its relatively high approach speed and retractable gear require more proficiency than fixed-gear trainers, but the airplane rewards skilled pilots with exceptional stability and predictable stall characteristics. The A36 has also served as a platform for specialized missions, including air ambulance operations and aerial survey work, where its combination of speed, range, and cabin volume prove ideal. SkyMeter has tracked 3,288 flights across 1,148 airframes and 1,090 operators, with GTA AIR INC the largest observed operator.