This 1962 Beechcraft B33 Debonair Is a Modernized ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

1962 Beechcraft B33 Debonair [Courtesy: Michael Meyer]

Each day, the team at Aircraft For Sale picks an airplane that catches our attention because it is unique, represents a good deal, or has other interesting qualities. You can read Aircraft For Sale: Today’s Top Pick at FLYINGMag.com daily.

Today’s Top Pick is a 1962 Beechcraft B33 Debonair.

From the beginning, the Beechcraft Bonanza was a hit, with a near-perfect blend of aesthetics and performance that pilots craved. When it went on sale in 1947 the all-metal Bonanza was a major departure from the open frames and fabric covering of typical GA aircraft.

While the distinctive V-tail design of the early models had a space-age appeal, many pilots still preferred traditional empennage. Beechcraft also wanted to boost sales by producing a budget version of the airplane, so the Debonair emerged in 1959.

Initially the new version lacked the desirable options and high-end trim offered with the V-tails, but it soon gained popularity, more features and wound up on equal terms with the V models.

Today the early Debonairs are still a less-expensive way to get the speed, quality, and charisma of a Bonanza. I do not think there is much left of the hierarchy that used to affect owners of different Bonanza models. The Debonair offers the performance and comfort that most pilots are looking for in a cross-country airplane.

This 1962 Debonair has 3,300 hours on the airframe and 650 hours since overhaul on its Continental IO-470-K engine. The aircraft carries 80 gallons of fuel and is equipped with GAMI injectors.

The IFR panel includes dual Garmin G5s for HSI and attitude, Garmin GTN 650 gps/nav/com, MX 170C nav/comm with ILS/VOR indicator, Garmin Aera 560 portable GPS with Airgizmo mount, GMA 345 audio panel, GTX 345 transponder, Garmin GAD 13, Insight G3 engine monitor, Garmin GFC 500 autopilot, and vertical card compass.

Additional equipment includes an engine oil filter adapter, auto fuel STC, LP Aero one-piece windshield, Lord shimmy damper, outside air temperature gauge, front seat shoulder harnesses, and oil pan heater.

Pilots who like the looks and value of an early straight-tail Bonanza but prefer to fly with modern instrumentation should consider this 1962 Beechcraft B33 Debonair, which is available for $139,000 on AircraftForSale.

If you’re interested in financing, you can do so with FLYING Finance. Use their airplane loan calculator to calculate your estimated monthly payments. Or, to speak with an aviation finance specialist, visit flyingfinance.com.