Every day, the team at Aircraft For Sale highlights an airplane that stands out for its unique qualities, condition, or value. You can find Aircraft For Sale: Today’s Top Pick daily at FLYINGMag.com.
Today’s Top Pick is a 1992 Sukhoi Su-31.
Pilots searching for a true competition-grade aerobatic aircraft will find this Sukhoi Su-31 a standout in both pedigree and condition. Built specifically for aerobatics, the Su-31 is a single-seat performer with exceptional agility, structural strength, and vertical energy. Known for its ability to withstand punishing G loads, this purpose-built airplane is as capable today as when it first debuted on the world stage.
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This Su-31 has just 86 hours since new. Its airframe is a combination of metal and composite materials that come together to form the foundation of a durable and responsive aircraft. The model is a descendent of the earlier Su-26 and features greater control authority and better balance in all axes, among other improvements.
Power comes from a Vedeneyev 360 hp nine-cylinder radial engine known for its robust torque and smooth output. It provides the Su-31 with the kind of performance needed for demanding vertical maneuvers and intricate gyroscopic figures. Paired with a matching propeller and the aircraft’s clean lines, the setup delivers fast response and excellent energy retention.
The aircraft is flown under visual flight rules and features a single-pilot configuration, as expected for this class. While it hasn’t flown in the past six months, both interior and paint are listed in excellent condition. The cockpit is stripped down for performance, with visibility and accessibility prioritized over comfort or luxury—exactly as most aerobatic pilots prefer.
Airframe total time sits at 86 hours, with no major modifications reported. The Su-31’s 7.8-meter wingspan, short-coupled tail, and high roll rate all contribute to a flying experience few other piston aircraft can match. For advanced pilots or competition hopefuls, it offers a reliable platform with room to grow in skill and routine complexity.
Listed at $330,000, this Su-31 is targeted at experienced aviators looking for a turnkey entry into serious aerobatics. It’s also a compelling option for collectors or sport flyers interested in low-time, high-capability machines that rarely become available in this condition.
Buyers interested in financing can begin the process with FLYING Finance. Use the airplane loan calculator to estimate monthly payments, or visit flyingfinance.com to connect with an aviation finance expert and start an application.
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