PIPER PA-32

A community dedicated to owners and pilots of the venerable Piper PA-32.

Owners and Pilots

2024 Fall Fly-In

We're back for 2024! The 2024 Fly-In has been scheduled for October 11-13, 2024. The location will be 12 miles north of Memphis in Millington, TN (KNQA).

Please click on the button for more details.

The PA-32

About the Piper PA-32

The Piper PA-32 is not a single airplane, but rather a family of single-engine, high-performance light aircraft designed for utility and comfort. Originally introduced in the 1960s by Piper Aircraft, the PA-32 series has earned a reputation for its versatility, reliability, and robust performance, making it a popular choice among private pilots, charter operators, and small business owners.

Design and Features

The PA-32 features a low-wing design, offering excellent stability and control. Its spacious cabin can comfortably accommodate up to six passengers, including the pilot, with ample room for luggage and cargo. The aircraft is equipped with a single Lycoming engine, providing the power and efficiency needed for both short and long-distance flights.

Variants and Upgrades

The Piper PA-32 series has seen several variants over its production lifespan, each offering unique features and improvements. Here is a comprehensive list of all the PA-32 variants:

  • PA-32-260 Cherokee Six 260
    The original model introduced in 1965 with a 260 hp Lycoming O-540 engine.

  • PA-32-300 Cherokee Six 300
    Introduced in 1966, featuring a more powerful 300 hp Lycoming IO-540 engine.

  • PA-32R-300 Cherokee Lance
    A retractable-gear version of the PA-32-300, introduced in 1976, also powered by a 300 hp Lycoming IO-540 engine.

  • PA-32RT-300 Lance II
    Introduced in 1978 with a T-tail design, powered by a 300 hp Lycoming IO-540-K1G5D engine.

  • PA-32RT-300T Turbo Lance II
    A turbocharged version of the Lance II, featuring a 300 hp Lycoming TIO-540-S1AD engine.

  • PA-32R-301 Saratoga SP
    Launched in 1980, featuring a 300 hp Lycoming IO-540-K1G5D engine and a revised design for improved performance.

  • PA-32R-301T Turbo Saratoga SP
    A turbocharged version of the Saratoga SP, introduced in 1980, with a 300 hp Lycoming TIO-540-S1AD engine.

  • PA-32-301FT Piper 6X
    Introduced in 2003 as a fixed-gear version with a 300 hp Lycoming IO-540-K1A5 engine.

  • PA-32-301XTC Piper 6XT
    A turbocharged version of the Piper 6X, featuring a 300 hp Lycoming TIO-540-AH1A engine.

  • PA-32-301 Piper Saratoga II HP
    Introduced in 1993, this model retained the 300 hp Lycoming IO-540-K1G5 engine and featured various upgrades to avionics and interior comfort.

  • PA-32-301T Piper Saratoga II TC
    A turbocharged version of the Saratoga II HP, featuring a 300 hp Lycoming TIO-540-AH1A engine.

Each variant of the Piper PA-32 has contributed to its legacy as a reliable and versatile aircraft, meeting the needs of diverse aviation missions and preferences.

Performance and Capabilities

The Piper PA-32 is renowned for its excellent performance characteristics. It boasts a respectable cruising speed, solid range, and the ability to operate from short and unimproved airstrips. These attributes make it an ideal aircraft for a variety of missions, from personal travel and air taxi services to medical evacuations and cargo transport.

Legacy and Community

The PA-32 has a dedicated following within the aviation community, thanks to its dependable service record and the support of Piper Aircraft's extensive network of parts and service providers. Owners and operators of the PA-32 often praise its blend of performance, comfort, and versatility, ensuring its continued popularity and relevance in the world of general aviation.

Whether you are a seasoned pilot or an aviation enthusiast, the Piper PA-32 stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Piper Aircraft's commitment to quality and innovation.