Beechcraft Bonanza 33 for Sale

Aircraft overview

The Beechcraft Bonanza 33 is the conventional tail member of the Bonanza family, developed from the Model 35 V tail line and introduced as the Model 33 Debonair in 1960. Production of Model 33 variants continued into the mid 1990s, with later aircraft marketed simply as Bonanza rather than Debonair. It is a piston single used for personal transport, business travel and instrument cross-country flying. For buyers, its significance is that it offers much of the Bonanza handling, build quality and systems familiarity in a shorter, lighter airframe than the six-seat Bonanza 36 series.

Performance & specifications

Performance depends strongly on variant, engine and propeller. Early Model 33 aircraft used Continental IO-470 power, while many later and more desirable examples, including the F33A, use the Continental IO-520 rated at 285 hp. Typical cruise speeds are commonly in the 150 to 170 knot range, with economy cruise lower and high power settings at the upper end. Practical range is often about 600 to 800 nautical miles with reserves, depending on fuel capacity and power setting. Useful load is commonly around 1,000 to 1,200 lb, though individual aircraft vary with equipment and modifications. Service ceiling for IO-520 powered examples is typically around 17,500 feet.

Cabin & avionics

The Bonanza 33 is usually configured with four seats, with some aircraft equipped for a fifth seat depending on model and interior layout. The cabin is narrower and shorter than the A36, but it remains suitable for two to four adults on regional trips when weight and baggage are planned carefully. Large doors are not a feature of this model, so loading is less flexible than in the Bonanza 36. Factory avionics varied by year and were generally analog with BendixKing or similar equipment. Used aircraft often have upgrades such as Garmin GNS or GTN navigators, Garmin G5 or GI 275 instruments, Aspen displays, JPI engine monitors, modern audio panels and ADS-B equipment. Garmin G1000 and Garmin Perspective are not typical factory suites for the Bonanza 33.

Buying & value

Key buying considerations include airframe corrosion, landing gear condition, fuel tank and bladder condition where applicable, engine time, propeller history, logbook continuity and compliance with Beechcraft service bulletins and applicable airworthiness directives. Buyers often compare early Debonair models, the C33A and E33A, and the later F33A, with the F33A generally valued for its IO-520 power and mature configuration. Common upgrades include IO-550 engine conversions, speed modifications, tip tanks, shoulder harnesses, modern autopilots and glass panel retrofits. On PlaneFox listings, current asking prices average about EUR 225,000, with observed listings from roughly EUR 73,000 to EUR 490,000, reflecting major differences in year, engine, avionics and refurbishment quality.