This 1971 Cessna 150K Is a Dual-Purpose, 150 HP ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

Upgraded Lycoming muscle, an included float kit, and an extensive maintenance history make this iconic trainer a rare land-and-sea adventurer.

FLYING Staff

Wednesday, July 01, 2026 at 10:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Zach Vasile

1971 Cessna 150K [Credit: Hiller Aviation]

Key Takeaways:

The article highlights a 1971 Cessna 150K as an "Aircraft For Sale Top Pick" due to its unique upgrades and versatility.
This specific aircraft features a modified 150 hp Lycoming O-320-E2D engine and a dual-propeller setup for enhanced performance.
It comes equipped with a complete seaplane utility package, including an EDO 1650 float kit, a dedicated seaplane propeller, a launch trailer, and marine VHF radio, enabling amphibious operations.
Priced at $84,900, it's presented as an exceptional value for flight schools or private owners seeking an affordable entry into seaplane 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 1971 Cessna 150K.

Breaking the mold of a traditional two-seat trainer by offering an uncommon combination of upgraded horsepower and backcountry amphibious freedom, this Cessna 150K represents a significant step up from standard factory specifications and offers a highly flexible platform for pilots wanting to master both conventional runways and remote waterways.

Peeking under the cowl reveals a dramatic departure from the standard Commuter powerplant. This Cessna 150K is driven by a modified, robust 150 hp Lycoming O-320-E2D engine, providing the substantial muscle needed for demanding short-field or water operations. The engine shows 1,122 hours since major overhaul (SMOH) and benefits from a fresh oil change and filter replacement completed in October 2025.

Translating that power into performance is a dual-propeller setup: a landplane McCauley fixed-pitch propeller that was freshly overhauled by A.C. Propeller Service in Seattle (with only 23.5 hours since overhaul), alongside a secondary 76-1/8″ seaplane McCauley fixed-pitch propeller complete with its own logbooks and spacer.

A glance at the instrument cluster reveals a highly practical, clean panel tailored for both cross-country navigation and specialized water-based communications. The avionics suite is anchored by a Garmin GMA 340 audio panel and a Garmin Apollo SL30 nav/com radio.

Airspace compliance and situational awareness are effortlessly managed via a Garmin GTX 335 transponder providing full ADS-B Out capabilities, supplemented by a portable Garmin GPSmap 495 GPS unit. Crucially for seaplane operators navigating busy waterways, the flight deck also features an integrated Icom IC-M302 marine VHF radio, ensuring seamless communication with boats and maritime traffic.

1971 Cessna 150K [Credit: Hiller Aviation]

What truly elevates this listing from a standard commuter to a versatile explorer is the inclusion of a complete seaplane utility package. This Cessna 150K comes ready for immediate multi-element deployment with an EDO 1650 float kit and a dedicated launch trailer for effortless water transitions.

Listed at $84,900, this aircraft represents an extraordinary value for flight schools looking to expand into floatplane ratings, or for private owners seeking a high-horsepower, affordable entry into the rewarding world of seaplane 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.