Air Compare: Grumman AA-5 vs. Mooney M20 Series

Moving four seats from point A to point B as quickly and efficiently— as possible.

Jason McDowell

Wednesday, August 23, 2023 at 12:25 PM ET

Verified

[Credit: Jim Stevenson]

Key Takeaways:

The Mooney M20 (short/medium body) and Grumman AA-5 series are both efficient 4-seat cross-country aircraft that offer excellent speed-per-dollar, despite a significant post-pandemic increase in market prices for both types.
Key design differences include the Mooney's retractable landing gear and more compact cabin with a single entry door versus the Grumman's fixed gear and sliding canopy providing dual access and a roomier interior.
While acquisition prices are comparable, ownership costs vary significantly, with Mooneys being substantially more expensive to insure (up to three times higher) and having slightly higher annual maintenance expenses than Grummans.

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During the 1960s and 1970s, general aviation was bustling. Fuel was inexpensive, disposable income was relatively plentiful, and airplanes were selling well. Bolstered by various wartime production surges, manufacturers were well-equipped to satisfy the market’s demand, and competition among general aviation aircraft manufacturers was intense.

This Article First Appeared in FLYING Magazine

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