The Mooney Acclaim is known in general aviation circles as one of the fastest single-engine piston aircraft ever produced. Designed with performance in mind, the Acclaim’s top attributes include its high cruise speed, impressive range, and efficient aerodynamics. Pilots looking for speed in a four-seat configuration frequently compare the Acclaim’s cruise speed to turbocharged competitors, but few match its performance at altitude. Understanding the cruise speed of the Mooney Acclaim and what contributes to it is essential for pilots, enthusiasts, and prospective buyers alike.
Overview of the Mooney Acclaim
The Mooney Acclaim, particularly the Acclaim Type S, is the final evolution of Mooney’s M20 series. It is equipped with a turbocharged, intercooled Continental TSIO-550-G engine, producing 280 horsepower. Introduced in the mid-2000s, the Acclaim was designed to deliver exceptional high-altitude performance and efficient cross-country travel.
Among general aviation aircraft, the Mooney Acclaim has earned a reputation for its high-speed cruise capability. It combines aerodynamic finesse, a low drag profile, and a robust powerplant to offer speeds that rival or exceed those of more complex and expensive aircraft.
Mooney Acclaim Cruise Speed Performance
Typical Cruise Speeds
The cruise speed of the Mooney Acclaim varies depending on factors such as altitude, weight, outside temperature, and engine settings. Under standard conditions and at optimal cruising altitudes, the Acclaim Type S can cruise at speeds up to:
- High-speed cruise: approximately 242 knots true airspeed (KTAS) at 25,000 feet
- Economy cruise: around 200210 KTAS with reduced fuel flow
This performance places the Mooney Acclaim at the top of its class among piston singles. The aircraft’s ability to reach and maintain these speeds over long distances contributes significantly to its popularity for personal and business travel alike.
High-Altitude Efficiency
The Acclaim is certified for flight up to 25,000 feet. At this altitude, it can take full advantage of its turbocharging system. Turbocharged engines like the TSIO-550-G maintain power at higher altitudes where normally aspirated engines struggle. This capability allows the Acclaim to reach thinner, smoother air and fly at maximum efficiency, reducing drag and maximizing cruise performance.
Aerodynamics and Speed Optimization
Sleek Airframe Design
The Mooney Acclaim features a low-drag, all-metal monocoque airframe with a distinctive forward-swept vertical stabilizer. Its tight tolerances and streamlined shape reduce parasitic drag. The aircraft also has retractable landing gear and flush-riveted skin, all of which contribute to better aerodynamic performance and higher true airspeeds.
Propeller and Engine Integration
The McCauley three-blade constant-speed propeller is optimized to work with the turbocharged engine for both climb and cruise. The power-to-drag ratio is finely tuned, ensuring that pilots can access top speeds without excessive fuel burn or stress on the engine.
Range and Cruise Trade-Offs
One of the considerations when flying any aircraft is the balance between speed and range. In the Acclaim, cruising at maximum speed results in higher fuel consumption, but pilots can select economy cruise settings to extend range.
Fuel Consumption
- High-speed cruise: approximately 2022 gallons per hour (GPH)
- Economy cruise: around 1617 GPH
With standard fuel tanks (100 gallons usable), the aircraft has a maximum range of approximately 1,450 nautical miles when flying at economy settings. Pilots often choose a cruise speed that balances time en route with available fuel reserves, especially during longer cross-country trips.
Flight Planning and Practical Considerations
For pilots using the Mooney Acclaim for travel, understanding how cruise speed affects flight planning is essential. High cruise speeds enable more destinations within a single day, especially when flying over long distances. However, weather, airspace, and oxygen requirements at higher altitudes must also be taken into account.
Oxygen Use at High Altitudes
At cruising altitudes above 12,500 feet, FAA regulations require supplemental oxygen for extended periods. Because the Acclaim performs best between 18,000 and 25,000 feet, an onboard oxygen system is standard equipment. This allows the aircraft to cruise efficiently while complying with safety regulations.
Weather and Wind Considerations
Flying at higher altitudes can also offer smoother conditions and better fuel economy with tailwinds. Pilots flying west to east, for example, often benefit from jet stream assistance, further increasing groundspeed and reducing flight time.
Comparison to Similar Aircraft
The Mooney Acclaim is frequently compared to other high-performance piston aircraft such as the Cirrus SR22T and Cessna TTx. While each has its own strengths, the Acclaim stands out for raw cruise speed and efficiency at altitude.
Competitive Performance Overview
- Mooney Acclaim Type S: 242 KTAS at 25,000 ft
- Cirrus SR22T: approx. 213 KTAS at FL250
- Cessna TTx (discontinued): up to 235 KTAS at FL250
In terms of pure speed, the Acclaim holds a narrow edge. It appeals to pilots who prioritize rapid cross-country capability, along with the Mooney brand’s reputation for quality construction and longevity.
Technology and Cockpit Experience
Speed is only one part of the equation. The Mooney Acclaim also delivers a sophisticated cockpit environment. Most models come equipped with the Garmin G1000 avionics suite, autopilot, synthetic vision, weather radar, and advanced navigation systems.
Combined with its high-speed cruise capability, the avionics suite enhances situational awareness and simplifies flight management. Pilots can easily calculate fuel burn, groundspeed, and arrival times based on real-time performance data, helping to optimize every leg of a flight.
Ownership and Operating Experience
Owning a Mooney Acclaim involves a combination of performance enjoyment and careful maintenance planning. The aircraft’s high cruise speed means shorter trips and less wear on engine hours, but regular inspections and turbocharger maintenance are essential for long-term reliability.
Typical Mission Profiles
- 5001,000 NM business travel routes
- Weekend cross-country flying
- High-altitude mountainous terrain operations
Owners often cite the Acclaim’s ability to reach destinations quickly without requiring a second fuel stop, making it a highly efficient aircraft for demanding schedules. The cruise speed becomes a practical benefit in terms of time saved, rather than just a performance specification.
The Mooney Acclaim’s cruise speed of up to 242 knots true airspeed makes it one of the fastest piston aircraft available for general aviation use. This speed, combined with its aerodynamic design, turbocharged engine, and high-altitude capability, delivers exceptional performance across a wide range of missions. Whether used for business or personal travel, the Acclaim allows pilots to cover long distances quickly and comfortably. Its cruise speed isn’t just a number it’s a gateway to efficient, time-saving travel for those who demand more from their aircraft.