Piper Aztec: Definition, Engine, Specifications, Cost

Piper Aztec is a twin-engine aircraft designed for both utility and passenger transport. Piper Aztec exhibits performance through its robust engine configuration and balanced flight characteristics. The model incorporates specifications that include wing design, fuel capacity, and avionics systems. Maintenance of Piper Aztec relies on proper service manuals and regular updates to its parts. Learn about Piper Aztec's engine type, weight distribution, tail assembly, and upgrades.

Piper Aztec operates with Lycoming IO-540-C4B5 engines featuring horizontally opposed cylinders. Horizontally opposed cylinders to provide balanced power delivery contributing to aircraft stability in flight. Engine displacement influences power generation efficiency determined by bore and stroke dimensions. Power generation efficiency affects fuel consumption rates impacting operational costs. Operational costs vary with atmospheric conditions influencing naturally aspirated engine performance requiring pilot management.

Piper Aztec achieves service ceiling through engine specifications defining cruise performance metrics optimizing fuel efficiency. Fuel efficiency supports short and long mission durations depending on fuel tank capacity determining maximum range limits varying with flight conditions, affecting airframe design utility including fuselage length and wingspan influencing payload distribution balancing empty weight and takeoff weight assuring operational safety margins.

Operating cost of aircraft depends on fuel prices, determining hourly fuel expenses. Fuel expenses vary with burn rate, correlating with cruise speed profiles and affects flight planning efficiency by minimizing variable costs. Variable costs include oil and consumables usage, which contribute to maintenance demands and increase dry operating costs. These costs, excluding fuel, are distinct to wet operating costs, applying to training operations. Historical operating costs reflect fuel price trends, which impact aviation budget allocations, covering repair and overhaul expenses to sustain aircraft airworthiness and assure safe operation capabilities. Strong airworthiness enhances aircraft market appeal and drives rental rate variability depending on region and condition factors. These variables affect crew inclusion decisions, affecting total operational expenses and determining affordability for users assisting educational and commercial applications.

What is the Piper PA-23-250 Aztec?

The Piper PA-23-250 Aztec is a twin-engined, light piston aircraft known for its reliability, versatility, and suitability for both personal and commercial aviation. The Piper PA-23-250 Aztec features two Lycoming IO-540-C4B5 engines, each rated at 250 horsepower, providing robust performance. A maximum takeoff weight of 5,200 lb (2,359 kg) ensures payload capacity for various missions. The aircraft's retractable landing gear enhances efficiency by reducing drag during cruise. With a service ceiling of 21,100 ft (6,430 m) and a maximum range of up to 1,320 nautical miles (2,445 km), the PA-23-250 model delivers operational flexibility. The all-metal, low-wing monoplane design contributes to its stability and aerodynamic efficiency.

The Piper PA-23-250 Aztec design incorporates an all-metal, low-wing monoplane configuration, to ensure aerodynamic efficiency and stability during flight. Retractable landing gear reduces drag, amplifying performance for the Piper PA-23-250 Aztec aircraft. With an empty weight of 3,180 lb (1,442 kg) and a fuel capacity of 140 US gallons (530 liters), expandable to 144 US gallons (545 liters) in some variants, the Piper PA-23-250 Aztec configuration supports extended missions. The Piper PA-23-250 Aztec engines consist of two Lycoming IO-540-C4B5 units, each producing 250 (186.4) horsepower, enabling a maximum takeoff weight of 5,200 (2,358.6) lb and a service ceiling of 21,100 (6,431.3) ft.

The Piper PA-23-250 Aztec extends to both personal and commercial aviation, accommodating one pilot and up to five passengers comfortably. Versatility defines the Piper PA-23-250 Aztec is suitability for various missions, including charter operations, cargo transport, and multi-engine pilot training. The Piper PA-23-250 Aztec model achieves a maximum range of 1,320 nautical miles, influenced by flight conditions, and cruises efficiently at 150 knots. Spanning 37 ft 2 in (11.33 m) in wingspan and measuring 31 ft 2 in (9.50 m) in length, the Piper PA-23-250 Aztec aircraft demonstrates reliability and adaptability within the PA 23 series. Twin-engine configurations central to the Piper PA-23-250 Aztec design assure operational flexibility for diverse aviation applications.

What is the history of the Piper Aztec airplane?

The history of the Piper Aztec airplane is marked by its evolution from the PA-23 Apache, introduced in 1954, to the robust and versatile Aztec variants produced until 1978. Piper Aircraft Corporation introduced the PA-23 Apache in 1954 as its first twin-engine aircraft. The initial design featured two 125 hp Lycoming engines and a twin-tail configuration but underwent redesign for enhanced performance. The production model, named the Apache, included a single vertical fin and higher-output engines. The PA-23-250 Aztec debuted in 1959 with 250 hp Lycoming O-540 engines and a swept vertical tail. Military variants like the UO-1 and U-11A served the US Navy, showcasing the aircraft's versatility.

Piper Aircraft Corporation's engineering of the PA-23 Aztec began with the first flight of the prototype on March 2, 1952. The initial design featured a twin-tail configuration and two 125 hp Lycoming engines but underwent redesign to boost performance.

The Aztec A (PA-23-250) entered production in 1959, marking the Aztec production timeline production start date. The Aztec B followed in 1961 with a longer nose for additional baggage space and a sixth seat. The Aztec C, introduced in 1963, included refined nose design. Military variants like the UO-1 and U-11A demonstrated the aircraft's versatility. The PA-23G Turbo Aztec introduced turbocharging for increased 30,000 feet (9,144 meters) operations. Production milestones continued until the late 1970s when core production of the PA-23 series ceased, aligning with the Aztec production timeline end of production date.

Military applications of the Piper Aztec included variants like the UO-1 and U-11A, which served the US Navy. These models highlighted the aircraft's adaptability for specialized roles. The broader impact of the Aztec on Piper Aircraft Corporation’s legacy stemmed from its function in advancing twin-engine technology. The PA-23 series established Piper Aircraft Corporation’s success in producing reliable and versatile twin-engine aircraft, contributing to Piper aircraft company historical milestones.

What engines power the Piper Aztec?

The engines that power the Piper Aztec are the Lycoming IO-540-C4B5 engines. The Lycoming IO-540-C4B5 engines are six-cylinder, horizontally opposed piston engines. Each engine is rated at 250 horsepower, providing reliable performance for the Piper Aztec. The displacement of these engines is 541.5 cubic inches (8.9 liters), achieved with a bore of 5.125 inches (13 cm) and a stroke of 4.375 inches (11 cm). These engines are naturally aspirated, air-cooled, and fuel-injected, to ensure efficient operation. Pilots value the durability and smooth operation of the Lycoming IO-540-C4B5 engines in various aviation applications.

The Lycoming IO-540-C4B5 engines produce 250 horsepower each, a rating that ensures the Piper Aztec achieves reliable performance during takeoff and cruising. The six-cylinder configuration of the Lycoming IO-540 engines provides balanced power delivery, contributing to the aircraft's stability in flight. Pilots operating the Piper Aztec benefit from the smooth operation typical of horizontally opposed piston engines. The displacement of the Lycoming IO-540-C4B5 engines is 541.5 cubic inches (8.87 liters), achieved through a bore of 5.125 inches (13.02 cm) and a stroke of 4.375 inches (11.11 cm). These specifications enable efficient power generation while maintaining manageable weight for the twin-engine aircraft.

The Lycoming IO-540-C4B5 engines are naturally aspirated, air-cooled, and fuel-injected, features that enhance their operational efficiency. Air cooling eliminates the need for a liquid cooling system, reducing complexity and maintenance requirements. Fuel injection ensures precise fuel delivery, optimizing combustion and minimizing fuel consumption. Unlike turbocharged piston engines that rely on forced induction, the Piper Aztec operates with naturally aspirated engines, requiring pilots to manage performance within the limitations of atmospheric conditions. Turbocharged variants of the Lycoming IO-540 series exist but are not utilized in the Piper Aztec.

The engines maintain reliability under demanding conditions, making them suitable for air taxi operations, flight training, and personal travel. The Piper Aztec was introduced in the 1960s and remains popular due to its robust design and twin-engine safety. Lycoming IO-540 engines contribute to the aircraft's reputation for ruggedness and versatility in general aviation.

What are the specifications of the Piper Aztec?

The specifications of the Piper Aztec are given in the table below.

The aircraft's service ceiling reaches 18,950 feet (5,780 meters), enabling efficient high-altitude operations. These metrics underscore the reliability of the Piper Aztec specs in diverse flying conditions. The Lycoming IO-540-C4B5 engines, generating 2 x 250 horsepower, contribute to these operational parameters. The Piper Aztec cruise performance and fuel efficiency make it suitable for both short and long missions. The fuselage length of 31 feet 2 inches (9.5 meters), wingspan of 37 feet 2 inches (11.33 meters), and airframe height of 10 feet 4 inches (3.15 meters) provide a spacious yet compact design. (9.5 meters (31.17 feet), 11.33 meters (37.17 feet), 3.15 meters (10.33 feet)). With an empty weight ranging from 3,180 pounds (1,443 kilograms) to 3,123 pounds (1,417 kilograms), and a maximum takeoff weight of 5,200 pounds (2,359 kilograms), the payload capacity remains 1,600 pounds (726 kilograms) with full fuel. These specifications highlight the versatility and practicality of the Piper Aztec in the general aviation market.

What is the cruise speed of the Piper Aztec?

The cruise speed of the Piper Aztec is 180 kt (333 km/h)/208 mph (335 km/h) at 7,000 feet (2,134 m) with standard fuel tanks under normal conditions. Early normally aspirated Aztec models achieve a cruise speed of 180 kt (207 km/h)/208 mph (335 km/h) at 7,000 feet (2134 m) with standard fuel tanks. Updated Aztec variants reach an optimal cruise speed of 205 mph (330 km/h) at 75% power and 7,000 feet (2,133 meters). Turbocharged models exceed this, cruising at 242 mph (389.47 km/h) at 22,000 feet (6705.6 meters). High density altitude conditions reduce speeds to as low as 135 mph (217 km/h). Economy cruise operations emphasize fuel efficiency with speeds around 150 kts.

High density altitude conditions reduce the Piper Aztec’s cruise speed to as low as 135 mph (217 km/h). Standard conditions at 7,000 feet (2,133.6 meters) allow the aircraft to achieve a cruise speed of 180 kt (207.04 mph)/208 mph (334.75 km/h) with standard fuel tanks. Turbocharged models demonstrate greater performance at higher altitudes, reaching speeds of 242 mph (389.45 km/h) at 22,000 feet (6705.6 meters). Altitude and environmental factors directly influence the aircraft's speed capabilities, emphasizing variability across operating conditions.

Typical cruise speeds for the Piper Aztec at 75 percent power range between 160 (296.3 kilometers per hour) to 165 (305.6 kilometers per hour) knots, with optimal performance achieving 205 (330 kilometers per hour) mph at 7,000 (2,133.6 meters) feet. Normal cruise speeds vary from 183 kts (208 mph)/211 mph (340 kph) to 187 kts (346 kph) depending on model configuration and power settings. Realistic cruise speeds under common operational scenarios align closely with these figures, reflecting balanced performance priorities.

Economy cruise operations prioritize fuel efficiency, resulting in speeds around 150 kts. Long-range cruise performance achieves 172 mph (276.8 km/h) at 10,200 feet (3108.96 meters), while specific conditions enable best cruise speeds of 178 kias (286.45 km/h). These metrics highlight the trade-offs between speed and fuel consumption, catering to diverse mission requirements.

The Piper Aztec exhibits a broad spectrum of cruise speeds influenced by model variants, power settings, and operational objectives. Speeds range from 135 mph (217 km/h) under high density altitude conditions to 242 mph (389 km/h) for turbocharged models at high altitudes. Performance data underscores the adaptability of the aircraft across varying environments and configurations.

What is the range of the Piper Aztec?

The range of the Piper Aztec depends on the specific variant and flight conditions. The Piper PA-23-250 Aztec achieves a maximum range of 1,320 nautical miles while the Piper PA-23 E Turbo Aztec reaches about 620 nautical miles. Factors like payload and altitude affect the aircraft's range.

The Piper Aztec achieves a range of 1,300 statute miles at a long-range power setting without fuel reserves. The addition of optional 20-gallon (75.7 liters) tip tanks extends the aircraft's range to 2,400 km (1,491 miles), including a 45-minute reserve. The turbocharged version of the Piper Aztec offers a range of 2,121 km (1,318 miles) with 45-minute reserves, while the normally aspirated model reaches 1,134 miles (1,825 km) at a 75% best-power cruise setting with the same reserve. A best-range scenario allows the Piper Aztec to cover 680 nm under ideal conditions, while the maximum range is 645 nm depending on the model and operational factors. General range specifications for the PA-23 include figures 679 nm and 620 nm, reflecting typical performance across various configurations. These numbers highlight the versatility of the Piper Aztec in accommodating different mission profiles and payload requirements.

What is the operating cost of a Piper Aztec?

The operating cost of a Piper Aztec depends on factors like fuel prices, maintenance, and usage conditions. Fuel costs for the Piper Aztec range from $147.96 to $164.40 per hour based on a fuel burn rate of 27.4 gallons (103.7 liters) per hour and prices between $5.40 and $6.00 per gallon (3.69 liters). Dry operating costs, which exclude fuel but include maintenance and repairs, total $153.28 per hour. Total variable costs, covering fuel, oil, consumables, and minor repairs, reach $235.19 per hour. Wet operating costs for training purposes equal $226 per hour. Historical operating costs in the 1960s and early 1970s were lower at $19.34 per hour with fuel priced at $0.43 per gallon.

Fuel costs for the Piper Aztec vary based on fuel prices and operational speeds. At a burn rate of 27.4 gallons per hour (103.7 liters per hour), fuel expenses range from $147.96 per hour at $5.40 per gallon ($1.43 per liter) to $164.40 per hour at $6.00 per gallon ($1.58 per liter). Low-speed operation at 61 knots reduces fuel consumption but does not align with standard cruise profiles for the aircraft. High-speed operation at 100 knots falls below the typical cruise speeds of 178–183 knots, making it an inefficient option for most operators. Standard cruise speeds result in a fuel burn rate of 25–27.4 gallons per hour (94.6–103.7 liters per hour), emphasizing the significance of efficient flight planning.

Dry operating costs of the Piper Aztec total $153.28 per hour, covering repairs and maintenance. These costs exclude fuel but highlight the ongoing expenses required to keep the aircraft airworthy. Maintenance impacts the overall hourly expenses, with owners reporting these figures based on 338 hours of operation. The robust performance of the Piper Aztec comes with substantial upkeep demands, contributing to its dry operating cost.

Total variable costs for the Piper Aztec reach $235.19 per hour, factoring in fuel, oil, consumables, and minor repairs. These costs exclude major overhauls or insurance, providing a clearer picture of routine expenses. Historical operating costs in the 1960s and early 1970s were lower at $19.34 per hour when fuel was priced at $0.43 per gallon. By 1974, operating costs rose to $25 per hour with fuel priced at $0.52 per gallon, reflecting the impact of rising fuel prices on aviation budgets.

Wet operating costs for training purposes total $226 per hour, including fuel and basic expenses. Average hourly rental rates for the Piper Aztec range from $300 to $600, depending on region and condition. A high-end rental rate of $1,400 per hour includes crew, insurance, and operational extras. These figures demonstrate the affordability of using the Piper Aztec for educational purposes while highlighting the variability in pricing across different operational contexts.

What is the price of a Piper Aztec?

The price of a Piper Aztec depends on model year, condition, and upgrades. New or like-new Piper Aztec models reach prices up to $299,000 due to recent upgrades and excellent maintenance. Pre-owned Piper Aztec D and E models in average condition cost around $105,000 with good operational status but no major upgrades. Used Piper Aztecs in good working condition sell for $96,000 with some maintenance history but reliable operation. Older Piper Aztec models in poor condition sell for as low as $30,000 requiring substantial repairs or refurbishment. The estimated market price of a Piper Aztec as of January 1, 2024, is $183,816 reflecting general market assessment.

The Piper Aztec demonstrates a wide price range influenced by condition and model year. Older models in poor condition sell for as low as $30,000 requiring substantial repairs or restoration. Used Piper Aztecs in good working condition sell for $96,000 reflecting reliable operation with some maintenance history. Average pre-owned Piper Aztec D-E models cost around $105,000 with operational status maintained but no recent upgrades. New or like-new Piper Aztec models reach prices up to $299,000 due to extensive refurbishment or nearly new status. Well-maintained Piper Aztecs with recent upgrades sell for $99,000 showcasing modern enhancements and good condition.

The estimated market price of a Piper Aztec as of January 1, 2024, is $183,816 providing a guideline for current market value. This benchmark accounts for varying conditions and operational statuses across the spectrum of available aircraft. Market trends reflect the balance between older models needing repairs and newer models offering upgraded features.

Historical pricing provides context for the Piper Aztec's value evolution. The base price of a 1962 Apache 235 was $45,000 featuring engines similar to the Aztec. Comparing historical pricing to modern values highlights long-term depreciation or retention influenced by inflation and market demand. The Piper Aztec retains its position as a twin-engine piston aircraft known for reliability and versatility.

Recent upgrades, maintenance history, and operational reliability impact pricing within outlined ranges. Well-maintained Piper Aztecs with recent upgrades sell for $99,000 reflecting enhancements and good condition. Older models in poor condition sell for $30,000 requiring substantial repairs. Used Piper Aztecs in good working condition sell for $96,000 emphasizing reliable performance with documented maintenance. Average pre-owned Piper Aztec D-E models cost $105,000 maintaining operational status without recent upgrades. New or like-new Piper Aztec models approach $299,000 highlighting extensive refurbishment or nearly new status.

Where can I find a Piper Aztec for sale?

You can find a Piper Aztec for sale on aircraft sales websites, including Trade-A-Plane, Controller.com, Hangar 67, and AircraftDealer.com, which provide listings with pricing details and advanced search filters. Trade-A-Plane lists 9 direct Piper Aztec results and 33 broader Aztec series results, offering a wide range of options. Controller.com provides listings with pricing details, ranging from $99,000 to $299,000 based on market data. Hangar 67 features specific models like the 1980 Piper Aztec PA-23-250F, including total time and price information. AircraftDealer.com offers various Piper Aztec models with inventory specifics including avionics upgrades and maintenance history. Advanced search filters on these platforms allow narrowing results by model, year, price range, location, and engine type.

Aircraft sales websites listings provide pricing details ranging from $85,000 to $299,000 depending on the model year and condition. Aircraft sales websites feature seller contact information including phone numbers and emails for direct inquiries. Online aircraft marketplaces advanced search filters allow users to refine searches by model, year, price range, location, and engine type. Inventory specifics like avionics upgrades, total airframe hours, and maintenance history are included in listings. Aviation classified advertisement platforms and listings feature detailed descriptions of aircraft with posting dates to indicate listing freshness. Aviation classified advertisement platforms seller details provide seamless communication between buyers and sellers. Online aircraft marketplaces comparison tools enable side-by-side evaluation of multiple Piper Aztec models to assess differences in price, features, and condition.

Partnering with aircraft brokers expertise in aircraft sales provides personalized consultation customized to individual buyer needs. Aircraft brokers negotiation services guide clients through the purchasing process while securing favorable terms during purchase agreements. Brokers analyze past auction results to offer insights into market trends and help set realistic budgets. Piper aircraft dealers authorized dealership networks provide access to new or certified pre-owned aircraft with detailed maintenance logs. Piper aircraft dealers maintenance history assures buyers of reliability while local availability simplifies logistics for inspections and purchases. Aircraft auction calendars list upcoming events featuring starting bid prices that vary based on condition and demand. Aircraft auction history reveals trends useful for anticipating final sale prices. Authorized dealerships inform buyers about specific model availability and up-to-date maintenance records for review.