Aircraft

Columbia 300/350:

But the airplane did have some disadvantages that might be significant to buyers who are eyeballing remaining Columbias on the current used market. Although both the Columbia 300 and earlier SR22s have identical empty and maximum gross takeoff weights, according to the Aircraft Bluebook the 300 gives up 150 pounds in full-fuel payload to the SR22, because its tanks are larger. It's a little more sensitive in loading, too, and perhaps a deal-breaker for some-it lacks the Cirrus' airframe parachute system.

Aviation Consumer Staff
Verified

The original Lancair Columbia was a lot of things, and in some ways helped set a new standard that lives on to this day. First, it was one of the new-generation singles spawned by NASA’s AGATE (advanced general aviation transport experiments) program and promised growing small aircraft use in intercity transportation. That concept also brought forth the Cirrus SR20 and SR22, which proved far more popular and ultimately outlived the retired Columbia.

But equally important to the airplane’s target buyers was its speed, modern composite design, state-of-the-art avionics and the fact that it was boldly different than any Cessna, Beech, Mooney or Piper. Further to its credit, a normally aspirated 300 and 350 will outrun a Cirrus SR22 by roughly 10 knots.

Aviation Consumer Staff