2002 Columbia 300
Low-time, Garmin-upgraded, well-maintained cross-country performer
This 2002 Columbia 300 is a clean, thoughtfully upgraded example of one of the most capable normally aspirated high-performance piston singles ever produced. Known for its speed, efficiency, and composite construction, the Columbia 300 remains a favorite among owner-pilots who value strong cross-country performance with modern avionics.
The current owner is selling only to step up to a Columbia 400 equipped with known icing capability, making this aircraft available after careful ownership and consistent maintenance.
The airframe has approximately 600 hours total time, an unusually low figure for a 2002 aircraft. The aircraft is IFR and VFR certified through January 2026, with a fresh annual completed and valid through July 31, 2026. All primary components remain original to the 2002 airframe.
Power comes from a Continental Platinum IO-550-N engine with approximately 600 hours since new. Maintenance has been performed on schedule, with all work up to date. The owner follows Savvy Aviation and Mike Busch best practices, including proper leaning techniques, with the engine expected to remain in service for at least another 1,400 hours and potentially longer based on condition monitoring rather than calendar assumptions.
In 2023, the aircraft received a significant avionics upgrade, transforming the panel into a modern, capable flight deck. The cockpit now features dual Garmin GI 275 electronic flight instruments, providing reliable attitude, air data, and redundancy. Navigation is handled by a Garmin GTN 725Xi touchscreen system, supported by dual Garmin GA 35 WAAS GPS antennas and a Garmin GMU 11 magnetometer. Traffic and weather are provided via an L3Harris Lynx NGT-9000 ADS-B transponder, while engine health is monitored through a JPI engine monitor.
The interior remains standard, presenting well and reflecting consistent care rather than heavy cosmetic modification.
The Columbia 300 offers a compelling blend of speed, handling, and efficiency, routinely cruising well above typical legacy singles while maintaining reasonable operating costs. With low total time, a modern Garmin avionics suite, a disciplined maintenance philosophy, and a fresh annual, this aircraft represents a strong opportunity for a buyer seeking a fast, capable personal aircraft without stepping into turbocharging or icing complexity.
Key details
Year: 2002
Total time: ~600 hours
Engine: Continental IO-550-N Platinum, ~600 hours
IFR/VFR certified through January 2026
Annual valid through July 31, 2026
Garmin avionics upgrade completed in 2023
