Piper Arrow: Definition, Difference, Specs, Performance

The Piper Arrow is a single-engine aircraft recognized for its retractable landing gear and efficient performance in general aviation. The Piper Arrow features a wing design optimized for stability and lift during flight. The cockpit integrates advanced avionics to support the pilot during various phases of flight. The engine and propeller combination ensures reliable power output and efficient fuel consumption. The specifications include details about range, takeoff capabilities, and load capacity specialized for demanding operations. The model incorporates unique features boosting safety and approach precision. Understand the Piper Arrow's design, performance metrics, and operational characteristics.

The Piper Arrow differs from the Piper Archer through its retractable landing gear and higher cruise speed. The Piper Archer retains fixed landing gear, emphasizing simplicity and economy for training purposes. Both aircraft share a low-wing design and tricycle landing gear configuration, providing stability and versatility. The Piper Arrow achieves superior aerodynamic efficiency due to its retractable gear, while the Piper Archer focuses on durability and reduced maintenance costs. Operating costs for the Piper Arrow exceed those of the Piper Archer because of increased mechanical complexity.

The Piper PA-28 series includes technical specifications specialized for diverse roles in aviation. The aircraft feature engines producing specific horsepower ratings, with fuel systems designed for consistent performance. Cruise speeds and gross weights vary across models, reflecting differences in mission requirements. Airframe construction employs durable materials, utilizing a semi-monocoque fuselage design. Landing gear configurations include fixed setups for trainers and retractable systems for high-performance variants. Shock absorption mechanisms guarantee stability during ground operations, boosting overall reliability.

Piper PA-28 performance highlights include maximum cruise speed, service ceiling, and climb rate. High-performance variants excel in speed and climb efficiency due to advanced engine options. Trainer variants prioritize stability and economy, balancing utility and comfort for diverse roles. Weight specifications define operational capabilities, accommodating payloads suitable for training and personal use. Parameters like empty weight and gross weight reflect suitability for specific missions, allowing versatility in various applications.

The cockpit of a Piper PA-28 features a functional interior configuration optimized for accessibility. Seating arrangements include four seats in a club-style layout, accessed exclusively from the starboard side via a single door. Earlier models integrate a classic six-pack instrument panel, while modernized versions feature glass cockpit suites with LCD screens. Flight controls prioritize intuitive operation, incorporating ergonomic yoke designs and precise rudder pedals. Navigation instruments guarantee optimal readability, with engine instruments clustered for better visibility.

What is the Piper PA-28?

The Piper PA-28 is a family light aircraft built by Piper Aircraft. Piper Aircraft designed the Cherokee family for flight training, air taxi, and personal use. The family aircraft comprises unpressurized single piston-engined planes with low-mounted wings and tricycle landing gear.

The Piper PA-28 series design incorporates several variants, including the Piper Cherokee, Archer, and Arrow. The Piper PA-28 Cherokee variant serves as a foundational model within the family, utilized for flight training due to its fixed gear configuration and straightforward handling. The Piper Archer trainer refines this concept further, offering refined aerodynamic features and a Lycoming O-360 engine producing 180 horsepower. The Piper Arrow variant distinguishes itself with retractable landing gear and a constant-speed propeller, optimizing performance for high-speed operations. These Piper PA-28 series aircraft family members share low-mounted wings and tricycle landing gear, providing stability and ease of use across diverse aviation roles.

Piper Aircraft manufacturer has established a reputation for producing reliable light aircraft suited for various applications. Piper Aircraft history reflects a commitment to innovation, in designing planes like the Piper PA-28 airplane for affordability and versatility. The Piper PA-28 Cherokee trainer specifically caters to novice pilots, combining simplicity with robust performance capabilities. With engines ranging from 140 to 180 (104.4 to 134.2 kilowatts) horsepower, the Piper PA-28 Cherokee performance highlights include cruise speeds of 108 (200 kilometers per hour) knots and a service ceiling near 14,300 (4,358 meters) feet.

The Piper Arrow design exemplifies advanced engineering within the PA-28 series, classified as a high-performance aircraft due to its retractable gear and better climb rates. The Piper Archer aircraft provides an ideal balance between training utility and personal flying, maintaining a cabin width of about 42 inches (106.68 centimeters) to accommodate four occupants comfortably. Piper Aircraft producer ensures shared characteristics like all-metal construction and unpressurized cabins across the piper PA-28 series variants, reinforcing its status in flight training, air taxi services, and private aviation. The Piper PA-28 price varies based on condition, with models like the PA-28-160 averaging around $79,500 in the used aircraft market.

What are the different models in the Piper PA-28 series?

The different models in the Piper PA-28 series include the PA-28-150 Cherokee, PA-28-160 Cherokee, PA-28-180 Cherokee, PA-28-235 Cherokee/Pathfinder, PA-28-236 Dakota, PA-28R-180 Arrow, PA-28-181 Archer, PA-28R-201 Arrow III, PA-28-201T Turbo Dakota, PA-28-140 Warrior, and PA-28-151 Warrior. The 235 Dakota and Archer models are notable for load-carrying and performance balance.

The different models in the Piper PA-28 series are listed below.

• Piper PA-28 series PA-28-150 Cherokee: The base model featuring fixed landing gear and a four-seat configuration.
• Piper PA-28 series PA-28-160 Cherokee: A variant with increased engine power while maintaining the classic Cherokee design.
• Piper PA-28 series PA-28-180 Cherokee: Known for its boosted performance and balanced load-carrying capacity.
• Piper PA-28 series PA-28-235 Cherokee/Pathfinder: Offers boosted power and payload capabilities, ideal for utility roles.
• Piper PA-28 series PA-28-236 Dakota: Notable for its performance balance and strong load-carrying ability.
• Piper PA-28 series PA-28R-180 Arrow: Features retractable landing gear and high-performance attributes for versatility.
• Piper PA-28 series PA-28-181 Archer: Combines refined airframe design with advanced handling characteristics for personal and expert use.
• Piper PA-28 series PA-28R-201 Arrow III: A higher-powered iteration of the Arrow known for long-range cross-country missions.
• Piper PA-28 series PA-28-201T Turbo Dakota: Incorporates turbocharging for refined high-altitude performance and efficiency.
• Piper PA-28 series PA-28-140 Warrior: A trainer-focused variant favored by flight schools for reliability and ease of operation.
• Piper PA-28 series PA-28-151 Warrior: Enhanced engine efficiency and dual-control configuration make it ideal for flight training environments.
• Piper PA-28 series Cherokee Challenger: Features a strengthened airframe and higher power output, suitable for demanding roles like cargo or specialized training.
• Piper PA-28 series Archer: Refined airframe balances performance and load-carrying capacity, catering to both recreational and professional aviation needs.
• Piper PA-28 series Arrow: Distinguished by retractable landing gear and long-range capability, appealing to pilots for extended missions.

What are the differences between a Piper Arrow and a Piper Archer?

The differences between a Piper Arrow and a Piper Archer are explained in the table below.

Retractable landing gear mechanism in Piper Arrow adds complexity but improves aerodynamics and reduces drag during flight. This feature increases speed and enhances overall performance but raises operating costs due to the intricate retractable landing gear system. Fixed landing gear simplicity in Piper Archer ensures robust operation and reduced maintenance. Engine system power in Piper Arrow provides better climb rates and performance at higher altitudes.

The Piper Arrow engine system includes advanced options like the Lycoming IO-360-B1E and Lycoming IO-360-C1C6, focusing on efficiency and reliability. Piper Archer engine system generates 180 horsepower, offering consistent performance in various flight conditions. Avionics suite navigation in Piper Arrow supports both VFR and IFR operations, featuring modern Garmin systems for better capabilities. Piper Archer avionics suite focuses on navigation, communication, and instrumentation systems, reinforcing its reputation as a stable trainer. Airframe design aerodynamics in Piper Arrow incorporates enhancements for weight distribution and structural integrity, while Piper Archer airframe design emphasizes simplicity and ease of operation.

Airframe design’s structural integrity ensures reliable performance in both aircraft. Piper Arrow’s airframe design supports retractable gear, requiring a robust structure to maintain reliability and durability. Piper Archer’s airframe design prioritizes simplicity and durability, focusing on fixed gear configuration. Weight distribution in Piper Arrow enhances maneuverability and performance, while Piper Archer maintains a straightforward design for stable handling characteristics. Piper aircraft heritage reflects a commitment to producing versatile aircraft, with Piper Arrow representing higher performance and embodying rugged approaches favored in flight training.

What are the differences between a Piper Arrow and a Piper Cherokee?

The differences between a Piper Arrow and a Piper Cherokee involve changes in engine power, retractable versus fixed landing gear, constant-speed versus fixed-pitch prop, and wing design. The Piper Arrow features a 200-hp engine, retractable gear, and semi-tapered wings for boosted performance. The Piper Cherokee has smaller engines, fixed gear, and straight wings for simplicity.

Differences between a Piper Arrow and a Piper Cherokee are explained in the table below.

The Piper Arrow landing gear operates electromechanically, featuring an auto-extension mechanism that deploys the gear if airspeed drops below a set threshold. This system enhances safety during flight operations. Piper Cherokee landing gear remains fixed, simplifying maintenance and reducing mechanical complexity. Fixed gear increases aerodynamic drag but ensures ruggedness, making it suitable for frequent landings and takeoffs typical in flight training. Landing gear configuration plays a vital part in defining operational simplicity versus performance efficiency within the Piper aircraft model lineage.

What are the differences between the Piper PA-28 and the Cessna 172?

The differences between the Piper PA-28 and the Cessna 172 include visibility, performance, and handling. The Piper PA-28 provides best visibility of the sky due to its low-wing design, while the Cessna 172 offers best visibility of the ground with its high-wing configuration. The Piper PA-28 delivers faster cruise performance and easier landing characteristics compared to the Cessna 172.

Differences between the Piper PA-28 and the Cessna 172 are explained in the table below.

Handling characteristics of the Piper PA-28 emphasize responsive ailerons and control surfaces, providing smoother and more agile handling during turns. The aircraft’s low-wing design results in pronounced ground effect, influencing landing and takeoff dynamics. The Cessna 172 Skyhawk stability benefits from its high-wing configuration, offering inherent forgiveness and predictability, especially for student pilots.

The low-wing design of the Piper PA-28 enhances visibility of the sky, refining situational awareness during turns. The high-wing design of the Cessna 172 Skyhawk prioritizes downward visibility, aiding in ground reference maneuvers and creating a secure setting for passengers. The Piper PA-28’s tapered wings boost aerodynamic efficiency, while the Cessna 172 maintains consistent handling traits across models.

What are the technical specifications of the Piper PA-28?

The technical specifications of the Piper PA-28 vary across models.

The technical specifications of the Piper PA-28 are given in the table below.

The airframe structure material of the Piper PA-28 consists of all-metal construction using aluminum alloy, emphasizing durability and strength. Airframe structure construction employs semi-monocoque fuselage design combined with low-wing cantilever configurations, boosting aerodynamic efficiency. The NACA 65 2-415 airfoil contributes to optimal cruise performance, central to airframe structure aerodynamic design. Landing gear system configuration predominantly features fixed tricycle setups, though the PA-28R variant includes retractable landing gear. Shock absorption mechanisms utilize oleo struts or torsional springs, guaranteeing stability during takeoff and landing.

The avionics suite navigation systems in the Piper PA-28 include VOR, GPS, and ADF capabilities, providing reliable navigation tools. Communication systems incorporate VHF radios, aligning with avionics suite communication systems. Basic instrumentation like airspeed indicators, altimeters, and attitude indicators ensures accurate flight monitoring, vital for avionics suite instrumentation. The fuel system integrates a standard capacity of 50 gallons (189.27 liters), maintaining consistency across models while allowing efficient fuel consumption rates. These features collectively enhance the operational reliability and versatility of the Piper PA-28 aircraft family.

What engine does the Piper Arrow use?

The engine the Piper Arrow uses is the Lycoming IO-360. The aircraft is equipped with this fuel-injected, four-cylinder model, rated at 200 horsepower. Newer models of the Piper Arrow use the Lycoming IO-360-C1C6 engine, maintaining the same performance capabilities.

The Piper Arrow integrates the Lycoming IO-360-C1C and IO-360-C1C6 engines, which deliver 200 bhp at 2700 rpm. These engines feature a four-cylinder, horizontally opposed configuration with air cooling and fuel injection. The Lycoming IO-360-C1C6 (200 hp) engine predominates in later Piper Arrow models, guaranteeing reliable performance for cruising speeds over 130 knots. Turbocharged variants like the Continental TSIO-360-F (Turbo Arrow III) and theContinental TSIO-360-FB (Turbo Arrow IV), enhance high-altitude capabilities through turbocharging technology. These engines maintain the 200 hp output while boosting efficiency in challenging flight conditions.

The Lycoming IO-360 series demonstrates reliability across various Piper Arrow configurations. Maintenance requirements include regular inspections of the fuel-injected system and air-cooled components. The Lycoming IO-360-C1C6 engine incorporates a Precision Airmotive Injector and operates with 100LL or 100-grade fuel. Turbocharged engines like the Continental TSIO-360-F and TSIO-360-FB demand additional attention to turbocharging systems but provide extended operational versatility.

The Lycoming IO-360-C1C6 engine suits pilots seeking consistent power and efficiency for standard operations. The Continental TSIO-360-F and TSIO-360-FB engines cater to those prioritizing high-altitude performance. Pilots select engines based on mission requirements, with the Lycoming IO-360 offering simplicity and the Continental TSIO-360 providing advanced capabilities.

What is the performance of the Piper PA-28?

The performance of the Piper PA-28 is given in the table below.

Critical airspeeds include a do-not-exceed speed of 153 KCAS and a maximum structural cruising speed of 122 KCAS, guaranteeing safe operational limits.

Why does the Piper Arrow have a T-tail?

The Piper Arrow has a T-tail due to marketing reasons. Marketing strategy drove Piper to adopt this design to appear different from competitors like the Bonanza. Aerodynamic benefits like reduced interference drag and better rudder effectiveness were secondary considerations.

The T-tail design contributes to aerodynamic efficiency by positioning the horizontal stabilizer above the wing's wake. This placement reduces interference drag caused by wing downwash, allowing for a smaller tail surface area. A smaller tail decreases overall aerodynamic resistance, bettering cruise performance. The vertical fin acts as an end plate, increasing the lift curve slope of the fin and boosting directional stability. Enhanced stability allows for steady flight conditions.

Better airflow results from the horizontal stabilizer operating in cleaner air above the wing. The separation minimizes turbulence from wing wake, optimizing airflow over the tail. Clean airflow enhances control authority at higher speeds. Despite these advantages, T-tail stall behavior optimization remains limited. At low speeds or high angles of attack, the T-tail loses effectiveness due to reduced airflow over the horizontal stabilizer. Pilots must manage pitch adjustments carefully during vital phases of flight.

Empennage pitch control in the T-tail configuration requires precise handling due to its sensitivity to airspeed changes. The design places the horizontal stabilizer farther from the center of gravity, increasing pitch response variability. Empennage structural configuration involves reinforcing the vertical fin to support the added load of the raised stabilizer. Structural demands result in a heavier empennage compared to conventional designs. Conventional tail configuration design contrast highlights differences in weight distribution and complexity.

Piper aircraft design philosophy emphasizes innovation and market differentiation. The T-tail visually distinguishes the Piper Arrow IV from competitors like the Bonanza. Conventional tail configuration wing interference creates drag and instability, which the T-tail mitigates through its raised placement. Piper aircraft manufacturer innovation reflects a willingness to experiment with configurations that align with contemporary trends. The Piper Arrow serves as an example of balancing aerodynamic considerations with marketing strategies.

What does the cockpit of a Piper PA28 look like?

The cockpit of a Piper PA28 has a classic and functional interior configuration focused on pilot ergonomics and straightforward aircraft operation. A Garmin G1000 glass cockpit suite replaces traditional analog instruments in later models like the Archer III. The instrument panel is designed for flight training, emphasizing simplicity and ease of use. Four seats are arranged in a club seating style, providing comfort for both training and personal flights. Access to the cockpit is exclusively from the starboard side via a single door.

The Piper PA28 cockpit layout emphasizes functionality and accessibility, with a focus on pilot ergonomics. The cockpit seating arrangement includes four seats in a club seating style, providing ample space for both training and personal flights. Access to the cockpit is exclusively from the starboard side via a single door, allowing ease of entry and exit. The instrument panel gauge arrangement features a classic six-pack configuration in earlier models, including the airspeed indicator, attitude indicator, altimeter, turn coordinator, directional gyro, and vertical speed indicator. Modernized versions integrate the Garmin G1000 glass cockpit suite, refining the instrument panel display configuration with large LCD screens.

The flight controls control arrangement prioritizes intuitive operation, featuring a T-shaped yoke for pitch and roll inputs. The yoke design incorporates ergonomic grips for natural hand placement, reducing fatigue during extended flights. Throttle quadrant positioning locates the throttle, mixture, and propeller controls on the center console, facilitating smooth power adjustments. The throttle quadrant layout groups these controls closely, allowing efficient operation during vital phases of flight. Rudder pedals are positioned close to the floor, allowing precise control inputs while minimizing strain. The pedal design includes toe brakes for coordinated turns and smooth ground handling.

Navigation instrument placement ensures optimal readability, with key displays centrally located on the panel or incorporated into the glass cockpit system. Engine instruments visibility is boosted by clustering gauges together, enabling pilots to monitor performance parameters at a glance. The engine instrument gauge configuration minimizes visual distractions while maintaining data accessibility. Avionics integration in the Piper PA28 ranges from traditional analog systems to advanced digital interfaces like the Garmin G1000. These upgrades highlight the avionics modernity of later models, balancing traditional simplicity with boosted functionality.

Where to find a Piper PA-28 Cherokee for sale?

To find a Piper PA-28 Cherokee for sale, explore listings on Trade-A-Plane, Aircraft For Sale, Barnstormers, and GlobalAir, where prices range from $22,000 to $300,000 depending on the model year, condition, and specifications. Trade-A-Plane lists over 100 Piper PA-28 Cherokee aircraft with model, year, and price filters. Aircraft For Sale provides listings with prices ranging from $52,000 to $199,900 depending on the model and condition. Barnstormers features older models like the 1967 PA-28 starting as low as $22,000. GlobalAir offers advanced search functionality and detailed inventory for newer models like the 2025 Archer PA-28-180. Piper Aircraft's official dealer network ensures certified pre-owned options with comprehensive inspections.

Understanding the market value of a Piper PA-28 Cherokee requires analyzing pricing, year, condition, and specifications. Older models from the 1960s and 1970s range from $22,000 to $90,000 depending on total airframe time and maintenance history. Newer models like the 2025 Archer PA-28-180 command prices exceeding $199,900 due to advanced avionics and low-time engines. Buyers seeking certified pre-owned options utilize Piper Aircraft’s official dealer network. The network ensures quality inspections, reliable service histories, and warranty-backed purchases for Piper PA-28 Cherokee aircraft.

General aviation dealerships provide expertise in exploring inventory and offer certifications for airworthiness. Aircraft brokers specializing in Piper PA-28 Cherokee sales deliver personalized assistance and access to specific models based on buyer requirements. Online marketplaces like Trade-A-Plane, Controller, and GlobalAir serve as vital tools for comprehensive listings. Trade-A-Plane features over 100 Piper PA-28 Cherokee aircraft with filters for model, year, and price. Controller lists aircraft with prices ranging from $48,000 to $300,000 while GlobalAir offers advanced search functionality and detailed inventory for models like the 2025 Archer PA-28-180.

What is the price of a Piper PA-28 Cherokee?

The price of a Piper PA-28 Cherokee varies based on model year, condition, and features. Prices range from tens of thousands to over $100,000. A 1967 PA-28-140 was sold for $22,000. A 1974 Piper PA-28 180 Cherokee with IFR capabilities is priced at $151,902. Brand-new Piper Archer models start at around $400,000.

The lowest used price for a Piper PA-28 Cherokee starts at $48,000, representing older models or those requiring more maintenance. Basic used models of the PA-28 Cherokee begin around $52,000, reflecting functional aircraft without upgrades. The average market price for a used Piper PA-28 Cherokee is $68,431, balancing age and condition to provide a standard benchmark in the market. Prices for well-maintained Piper PA-28 Cherokee aircraft in good condition reach $75,000, while models equipped with Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) capabilities are valued at $151,902 due to additional avionics and boosted functionality.

Well-maintained older models, like a 1974 Piper Cherokee 235, command prices up to $189,500, showcasing meticulous care and possible upgrades. High-end used Piper PA-28 Cherokee aircraft with excellent equipment and condition reach $199,900, appealing to buyers seeking premium features. Prices for pristine-condition Piper PA-28 Cherokees approach $300,000, justified by modern avionics, thorough maintenance, and exceptional overall condition.

Factors including age, total time on the airframe, engine time since overhaul, avionics equipage, and interior condition influence pricing across the Piper PA-28 Cherokee range. The Piper PA-28 Cherokee price reflects diversity in the market, accommodating both affordable entry-level options and highly equipped, well-maintained aircraft with advanced features.