Velocity XL vs Glasair III

The Velocity XL (canard pusher) and Glasair III (conventional retractable) are fast composite kits of very different layout.

Live Market Snapshot

Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily

Velocity XL

No active listings right now.

Glasair III
For sale now
5
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
3
Source marketplaces
3
Model years available
1977–2002

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)Velocity XLGlasair III
All events32
Serious11
Fatal11
Fatalities11
% Fatal33%50%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Velocity XL Glasair III
Glasair III
View 2 listings →
Median $220,000
Price Range $215,500 – $336,100
Category Experimental
Model Specifications
Seats 1
Cruise Speed 190 kts (352 km/h)
Range 1,100 nm (2,037 km)
Max Gross Weight 2,400 lbs (1,089 kg)
Engines 2 x Piston

Which Should You Buy: Velocity XL or Glasair III?

Bottom line: Choose the Glasair III for conventional fast handling and two-seat sport; choose the Velocity XL for four seats and the canard-pusher configuration (CG discipline). Glasair = conventional/fast; Velocity = 4-seat/canard. ================================================================ # CROSS-REFS — Lancair/Glasair mirrors. Canard CG/weight-and-balance = decisive safety (see safety).

Pick the XL if…

Pick the III if…

Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Velocity XL or Glasair III?
It depends on your mission and budget. The III cruises at 190 kts with 1,100 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Glasair III: from $215,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Velocity XL and Glasair III?
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?
III: 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