This 1949 Piper PA-11 Cub Special Is a Newly Recovered ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

With its classic lines and a 2019 restoration, the airplane stands as a testament to timeless aviation.

FLYING Staff

Thursday, September 04, 2025 at 12:00 PM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

1949 Piper PA-11 Cub Special [Courtesy: Hiller Aviation Consulting]

Key Takeaways:

A 1949 Piper PA-11 Cub Special is featured as "Today's Top Pick," lauded for its timeless classic appeal and meticulous restoration including a full recovery and refurbishment in 2019.
It is powered by a Continental 0-200 engine that received a major overhaul in 2018 and a recent top overhaul just 183 hours ago, ensuring strong performance and reliability.
Priced at $55,000, this two-seat aircraft offers low maintenance, economical flying, and operational simplicity, making it ideal for new owners or seasoned pilots seeking authentic stick-and-rudder flying.

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Every day, the team at Aircraft For Sale chooses an airplane that catches our attention because it is unique, a good deal, or has other qualities we find interesting. You can read Aircraft For Sale: Today’s Top Pick at FLYINGMag.com daily.

Today’s Top Pick is a 1949 Piper PA-11 Cub Special.

A true testament to the timeless appeal of classic aviation, this particular aircraft is a standout example, not just for its enduring design, but for the meticulous care it has received. That includes a full recovery and refurbishment in 2019 that makes it feel fresh and ready for the next chapter.

Powering this classic taildragger is a robust Continental 0-200 engine, which received a major overhaul in 2018 and has since logged 3,318 hours. What’s particularly notable is the recent top overhaul, completed just 183 hours ago, ensuring strong performance and reliability for many years to come. The fixed-pitch propeller perfectly complements the aircraft’s simple and elegant design, making for a straightforward and enjoyable flight experience.

With its two-seat interior, the cabin offers a cozy and intimate environment, ideal for weekend getaways or an afternoon spent enjoying the skies.

Beyond its classic appeal, this Cub presents a compelling case for ownership. Its simple mechanical systems and simple design translate to low maintenance costs and operational simplicity, making it a perfect first aircraft for a new owner or a cherished weekend flyer for a seasoned pilot. The aircraft’s lightweight and efficient engine allows for economical flying, letting you spend more time in the air and less time at the fuel pump.

1949 Piper PA-11 Cub Special [Courtesy: Hiller Aviation Consulting]

The exterior, completed with its 2019 recovery, honors the aircraft’s classic lines while presenting a pristine and modern finish. Located in La Grande, Oregon, this PA-11 is a perfectly prepared aircraft, ready to be flown and cherished by its new owner.

Offered at $55,000, this 1949 Piper PA-11 Cub Special is a fantastic opportunity to own a piece of aviation history. With its recent updates, well-maintained engine, and classic appeal, it’s a true “get-in-and-go” machine for anyone seeking the authentic joy of stick-and-rudder flying.

If you’re exploring ownership options, FLYING Finance can help get you airborne. Use our airplane loan calculator to estimate your monthly payments, or connect with an aviation finance expert at flyingfinance.com.