Exploring the Fastest Fixed-Pitch Propeller-Powered Aircraft

While variable-pitch propellers have become the norm for high-speed aircraft, there are still several notable examples of fixed-pitch propeller-powered aircraft that have made impressive feats in their categories. In this article, we will explore some of the fastest fixed-pitch propeller-powered aircraft and discuss the factors that limit their speed compared to their variable-pitch counterparts.

Top Fixed-Pitch Propeller-Powered Aircraft

Mooney M20V Acclaim Ultra

Top Speed: Approximately 200 knots (230 mph / 370 km/h)

The Mooney M20V Acclaim Ultra is a twin-engine aircraft known for its turbocharged engine and efficient aerodynamics. While turbocharging is a significant factor in its speed, fixed-pitch propellers still limit its top speed compared to aircraft with variable-pitch propellers.

Piper Aerostar Super 700

Top Speed: Around 300 knots (345 mph / 555 km/h)

The Piper Aerostar Super 700 is an exceptional fixed-pitch propeller aircraft. While many variants can be equipped with variable-pitch propellers, the fixed-pitch propellers in many Aerostar models allow for high-speed performance, making it one of the fastest in its category.

Beechcraft Baron G58

Top Speed: About 202 knots (232 mph / 374 km/h)

As a twin-engine aircraft, the Beechcraft Baron G58 is well-regarded for its speed and performance. Fixed-pitch propellers are a common feature in this aircraft, contributing to its high-speed capabilities.

Cessna 210 Centurion

Top Speed: Approximately 160 knots (184 mph / 296 km/h)

The Cessna 210 Centurion is a versatile and fast single-engine aircraft. While fixed-pitch propellers may not be as impressive as variable-pitch systems, they still enable this aircraft to achieve impressive speeds, particularly in its class.

Piper PA-46 Malibu

Top Speed: About 200 knots (230 mph / 370 km/h)

The Piper PA-46 Malibu is renowned for its performance, and many models are equipped with fixed-pitch propellers. This aircraft maintains a high top speed, making it a formidable choice for pilots who require both speed and performance.

Summary and Further Considerations

While these aircraft are among the fastest in their category, their speeds can vary based on factors such as weight, altitude, and environmental conditions. Fixed-pitch propellers generally limit maximum speed compared to variable-pitch systems, which allow for better performance optimization at different flight regimes.

There are very few fixed-pitch propeller aircraft setting any speed records. Most ‘fast’ propeller-driven aircraft have variable pitch props. If you are truly looking for fixed-pitch speed records, you need to look at light aircraft as these will be the ones with fixed pitch propellers.

For those keen on finding the fastest propeller-driven aircraft, post-WWII aircraft could be a better option. For instance, the last P-47 variant, featuring a prototype Chrysler inverted V16 engine, demonstrated exceptional performance.

It is important to note that any propeller is ultimately limited in its ability to transfer power into thrust. The increasing power requirements make exceeding Mach 1 in level flight almost impossible with a propeller-driven aircraft. However, if you put enough power behind any propeller, you can get very close to that limit.