I’ve always wondered which planes are the most produced in the world. While I initially thought the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 would top the list, that’s not quite the case. However, when I visit flying schools around the country, I notice a few common planes, and they’re usually Cessnas! This piqued my curiosity about the 10 most produced aircraft in the world. So, here are the top 10!
Most of them, particularly the WWII fighters, are no longer in production, but some of these planes on the list are still being made.
10. Polikarpov Po-2
Starting our countdown is the Polikarpov Po-2, the most produced biplane ever. This Soviet multirole aircraft was produced between 1928 and 1952 and found use in training, liaison, reconnaissance, and ground-attack missions. Production continued in Poland until 1959 under a licensed variant.
9. Focke-Wulf Fw 190
Next up is the Focke-Wulf Fw 190, a German single-seat fighter aircraft. Produced in 20,051 units, this aircraft played a significant role in World War II. Its innovative radial engine and aerodynamics gave it a competitive edge in combat.
8. Piper J-3 Cub
The Piper J-3 Cub is another aircraft that has made its mark. Produced mainly in the United States, this fabric-covered monoplane was active from 1938 to 1947. It also had variants that expanded its capabilities beyond civilian aviation.
7. Supermarine Spitfire
The Supermarine Spitfire holds the seventh spot on our list. This British fighter aircraft was active from 1938 to 1948 and was instrumental in shaping World War II aerial combat. Its Seafire variants introduced carrier-based operations, expanding its reach.
6. Cessna 182
The Cessna 182 is a utility aircraft that has been produced in more than 23,237 units. Active since 1956, this aircraft has found various roles, from personal and business travel to law enforcement and skydiving.
5. Cessna 150
The Cessna 150 holds the fifth spot with a production count of 31,471 units. Known for its straightforward handling and stability, it has become a popular choice for flight training.
4. Piper PA-28 Cherokee
The Piper PA-28 series is another versatile aircraft family. With a production tally exceeding 32,778 units, it has been popular among flight schools and training institutions.
3. Messerschmitt Bf 109
The Messerschmitt Bf 109 holds the third spot. This German aircraft was the backbone of the Luftwaffe’s fighter force in World War II and was produced in 34,852 units.
2. Ilyushin Il-2
The Ilyushin Il-2 Sturmovik holds the second spot. Known for its armor protection, it was produced in 36,183 units and is the most produced combat aircraft.
1. Cessna 172 Skyhawk
Topping the list is the Cessna 172 Skyhawk, with a production count exceeding 44,000 units. Known for its endurance and reliability, it holds the world record for the longest continuous flight without landing for a single-engine aircraft.
The Cessna 172 isn’t just popular with flight schools; private owners love it too. No worries about spare parts since they’re still making this plane. First rolled out in 1956, it’s still being produced today and comes packed with the latest avionics. The 172 Skyhawk runs on cutting-edge cockpit tech, featuring the Garmin G1000 NXi. Plus, the new Garmin GI 275 electronic standby gives you the best of both worlds: you keep that classic instrument look while getting a slick, modern touchscreen display.
First love never dies. I fell in love with airplanes and aviation when I was a kid. My dream was to become a pilot, but destiny led me to another path: to be an aviation digital media content creator and a small business owner. My passion for aviation inspires me to bring you quality content through my website and social accounts. Aviation is indeed in my blood and blog!
