Pipistrel EXPLORER vs Icon A5
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily
Pipistrel EXPLORER
- For sale now
- 7
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 1
- Source marketplaces
- 2
- Model years available
- 2022–2026
Icon A5
- For sale now
- 20
- Median asking
- $295,000
- Range
- $233,000–$451,000
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 3
- Source marketplaces
- 2
- Model years available
- 2016–2024
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) | Pipistrel EXPLORER | Icon A5 |
|---|---|---|
| All events | — | 7 |
| Serious | — | 2 |
| Fatal | — | 1 |
| Fatalities | — | 1 |
| % Fatal | — | 14% |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Pipistrel Explorer | Icon A5 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $190,268 – $270,590 | $233,000 – $451,000 |
| Category | Light Sport | Light Sport |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | — | 2 |
| Cruise Speed | 133 kts (246 km/h) | 84 kts (156 km/h) |
| Range | 625 nm (1,158 km) | 427 nm (791 km) |
| Max Gross Weight | 1,323 lbs (600 kg) | 1,510 lbs (685 kg) |
| Engines | — | 1 x Piston |
Which Should You Buy: Pipistrel EXPLORER or Icon A5?
Pick the EXPLORER if…
- Budget matters — from $190,268 vs $233,000, you save ~$42,732.
- Faster cruise — 133 kts vs 84 kts.
- Longer range — 625 nm vs 427 nm.
Pick the A5 if…
- Newer design — production from 2014 vs 2008.
- More inventory — 16 listings vs 6.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Pipistrel Explorer or Icon A5?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Explorer cruises at 133 kts with 625 nm range.
The A5 cruises at 84 kts with 427 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Icon A5: from $280,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Pipistrel EXPLORER and Icon A5?
A5 engine: Rotax 9120-iS.
Cruise: 133 vs 84 kts.
Range: 625 vs 427 nm.
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?
A5: 2 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