Cessna IV-P Aircraft

· 2-seat · updated recently

About the Cessna IV-P

The Lancair IV-P is a high-performance, pressurized experimental aircraft that represents the pinnacle of kit-built aviation speed. Designed as a two-seat retractable gear composite aircraft, the IV-P is powered by a Continental engine and is capable of cruise speeds exceeding 300 knots at altitude, rivaling many turboprops while burning a modest 16 gallons per hour.

Built from a kit by owner-builders, each Lancair IV-P reflects the craftsmanship and preferences of its builder, with variations in engine choice, avionics, and interior appointments. The aircraft features a pressurized cabin that allows comfortable high-altitude flight, a sleek composite airframe with retractable gear, and performance numbers that consistently surprise pilots accustomed to factory-built aircraft. Variable hourly costs average around $180, with annual fixed costs near $20,000.

The Lancair IV-P appeals to experienced pilots who are comfortable with high-performance experimental aircraft and value raw speed above all else. It is not a beginner airplane — the type demands respect and skill, with relatively high wing loading and approach speeds. For pilots who understand its characteristics, the IV-P delivers an extraordinary combination of speed, range, and efficiency that no certified piston aircraft can match at any price.

Cessna IV-P Specifications

Model spec

The Cessna IV-P is a 2-seat single engine piston.

Engine & Fuel
Fuel Burn16.0 GPH (61 L/h)
TBO2,000 hrs
Weights & Seats
Seats2
Max Gross Weight12,500 lbs (5,670 kg)
Production1979–1986

Cessna IV-P Listings

No Cessna IV-P currently listed for sale.

This page updates automatically the moment one is listed — check back soon, or browse the Cessna range.

Compare Cessna IV-P

Detailed comparisons for the Cessna IV-P are being prepared.

Browse all Cessna models →

Cessna IV-P Price & Cost

Cessna IV-P Price Guide

Key price factors: engine time to overhaul, year and airframe hours, avionics, damage history and logbook completeness — see the buying guide below for the full pre-purchase checklist.

Cessna IV-P Cost of Ownership estimate
Fuel (16.0 GPH × $6.20, 100 hrs)$9,920/yr
Annual Fixed (hangar, insurance, annual)$20,000/yr
Variable (per hour)$180/hr
Engine Overhaul (every 2,000 hrs)$35,000
Estimates at 100 flight hours/year. Actual costs vary by usage, location and insurance.

Buying a Used Cessna IV-P

Every Cessna IV-P faces a mandatory 2,000-hour overhaul, so the single biggest factor in used price is how much time remains before that overhaul is due — a fresh-overhaul airframe can be worth a large share of the $35,000 overhaul cost more than one approaching its limit.

What to check before buying

  • Time to overhaul — hours and years remaining to the 2,000-hour limit; this dominates resale value more than total time.
  • Logbook completeness — continuous, gap-free maintenance records; missing logs cut value and complicate financing.
  • Damage history — any prior accident, hard landing or blade strike; cross-check the registration against accident databases.
  • Avionics — a glass panel vs steam gauges materially changes price.
  • Pre-buy inspection — always commission an independent inspection by a type-experienced mechanic before money changes hands.

Frequently Asked Questions — Cessna IV-P

What are the known issues with the Cessna 421B Golden Eagle?
The pressurized Cessna 421B uses geared GTSIO-520 engines with short TBOs and expensive overhauls. The exhaust system is prone to cracking. A viscous damper failure can destroy the engine (AD 2007-05-15). Annual inspections run $15-20K at a specialist shop — generic mechanics should not work on this aircraft.
What cabin features make the Cessna IV-P unique?
The 421B was marketed as the Golden Eagle and sometimes listed as the IV-P designation. It offers a pressurized, stand-up cabin seating 6 passengers — the cheapest pressurized cabin-class twin on the used market. Expect acquisition prices of $100-200K, but budget heavily for ongoing maintenance and engine reserves.
Disclaimer: All prices, cost estimates, and market values shown are based on asking prices from third-party sources and are provided for informational purposes only. AeroGurus is not an appraiser, broker, or financial advisor. Always obtain a professional appraisal and independent inspection before making a purchase decision.
Listings last refreshed recently · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data