Arion LIGHTNING vs Sonex SONEX
The Arion Lightning and Sonex are sport kits — the Arion a refined composite two-seater, the Sonex a low-cost metal sport airplane.
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily
Arion LIGHTNING
No active listings right now.
Sonex SONEX
- For sale now
- 2
- Source marketplaces
- 2
- Model years available
- 2011–2023
Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.
Safety Record
Absolute counts scale with fleet size — the most-produced types log more events without being less safe. Compare the % fatal.
| NTSB (1982–now) | Arion LIGHTNING | Sonex SONEX |
|---|---|---|
| All events | 2 | 2 |
| Serious | 2 | 0 |
| Fatal | 0 | 1 |
| Fatalities | 0 | 1 |
| % Fatal | 0% | 50% |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Arion LIGHTNING | Sonex Sonex |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $89,000 | $23,600 – $34,400 |
| Category | Experimental | Experimental |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | — | 1 |
| Engines | — | 1 x Piston |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Arion LIGHTNING or Sonex Sonex?
It depends on your mission and budget.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Arion LIGHTNING: from $89,000.
Sonex Sonex: from $23,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Arion LIGHTNING and Sonex SONEX?
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
SONEX: 1 seats.
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data