The CEA-311 Anequim, Developed by UFMG, Establishes a Milestone in Aviation as the Fastest Single-Engine Piston Aircraft in the World, Challenging the Limits of Aerodynamics and Aeronautical Engineering.
At the heart of Brazilian aeronautical innovation, the CEA-311 Anequim has earned the title of the world’s fastest single-engine piston aircraft. Created by a team led by Paulo Iscold at the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), this achievement not only demonstrates the potential of national engineering, but also redefines the possibilities of speed and performance in the light aircraft category.
The Anequim has been meticulously designed to push the boundaries of aerodynamics. With an extremely aerodynamic profile and lightweight construction, the aircraft achieves impressive speeds, resulting from a combination of science, passion, and innovation. Despite its compact stature, the Anequim houses a powerful internal combustion engine capable of producing record speeds.
Anequim, the Fastest Single-Engine Piston Aircraft in the World
Flown by the experienced Guna, the Anequim not only broke records but established new speed standards for aircraft in its class, reaching an incredible 521.08 km/h, marking its history as the fastest single-engine piston aircraft in the world. This remarkable performance was achieved while strictly remaining below 100 meters in altitude, demonstrating its exceptional capability under demanding flight conditions.
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Construction and Characteristics
As the first aircraft fully built from carbon fiber in Brazil, the CEA-311 Anequim stands out for its lightness and strength. Its optimized design minimizes drag, while unique features, such as the unusual placement of the radiator and the integration of the exhaust system, contribute to its superior aerodynamic efficiency.
Pilot’s View and Flight Experience
The Anequim was specifically designed for pilot Guna, prioritizing visibility and perfect fit within the cockpit, illustrating the commitment to maximum performance. The experience of flying the Anequim is likened to driving a Formula 1 car, with highly sensitive controls and a pilot position that maximizes response and agility of the aircraft.
The CEA-311 Anequim is a testament to Brazil’s innovative spirit and technical capability in the global aeronautical landscape. It exemplifies how a passion for aviation, combined with engineering expertise, can lead to extraordinary achievements, solidifying Brazil’s place in aviation history with an unprecedented fastest single-engine piston aircraft in terms of speed and design.
And What Is the Price of a Single-Engine Aircraft?

The cost of a single-engine aircraft can vary widely. Basic models, like a 1974 Cessna 172, range between R$ 350,000 and R$ 1 million, while more sophisticated aircraft, such as the 2007 Cirrus SR22 GTS Turbo, range between R$ 1 million and R$ 3.5 million. Top-of-the-line planes, like the 2019 Piper M500, can cost between R$ 10 million and R$ 35 million, reflecting the diversity and complexity of the aviation market.
The distance a single-engine aircraft can cover is determined by factors such as fuel capacity, engine efficiency, and flight conditions. A Cirrus SR22, for instance, can reach about 1,200 nautical miles (2,220 km) under ideal conditions. The range of a single-engine aircraft, like the Piper Meridian, can be approximately 1,000 nautical miles (1,852 km), depending on the same variables.
Safety: Single-Engine vs. Twin-Engine
Although twin-engine aircraft are often seen as safer due to engine redundancy, modern single-engine aircraft also offer high levels of safety. Equipped with advanced navigation technologies and emergency systems, such as ballistic parachutes in some models, current single-engine aircraft are reliable and safe for a wide range of aerial operations.

