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Bonanza Performance: Speed, Efficiency & Range Analysis
The Beechcraft Bonanza delivers premium performance that justifies its positioning at the top of single-engine aircraft. With cruise speeds exceeding 160 knots, impressive climb performance, and excellent range, the Bonanza enables true cross-country flying with families and cargo. Understand Bonanza performance characteristics across variants and how they translate to real-world mission capability.
Specifications & Baselines
Bonanza specifications establish its performance foundation.
A36 Performance Baseline
- MTOW: 3,650 lbs
- Engine: Lycoming IO-550 300 hp
- Service ceiling: 18,000 ft
- Useful load: 1,450 lbs
- Fuel capacity: 102 gallons
Cruise Performance
Bonanza cruise performance exceeds most single-engine aircraft.
Cruise Speeds
- 75% power at 5,000 ft: 165-175 knots
- 65% power at 6,000 ft: 160-165 knots
- 55% power at 8,000 ft: 150-155 knots
- Typical cross-country: 160 knots at optimal altitude
Climb & Altitude
Bonanza climb performance enables excellent altitude performance.
Climb Rates
- Best rate of climb: 900+ fpm at sea level
- At 5,000 ft: 600+ fpm
- At 10,000 ft: 300+ fpm
- Service ceiling: 18,000 ft
Range & Endurance
Bonanza range supports extended cross-country missions.
Practical Range
- Maximum range (no reserve): 1,200+ nm
- Practical range (45-min reserve): 900-950 nm
- Typical cross-country leg: 700-800 nm
- Endurance: 9+ hours at lean mixture
Competitive Comparison
Bonanza performance significantly exceeds comparable aircraft.
vs Cessna 182
- Speed advantage: Bonanza 20+ knots faster
- Climb advantage: Bonanza 100+ fpm better
- Range advantage: Bonanza 100-200 nm better range
- Comfort advantage: Bonanza six-seat configuration