Piper Comanche: Definition, Specifications, Cockpit

Piper Comanche is a single-engine aircraft known for its advanced design and performance capabilities. The interior of Piper Comanche provides comfort and functionality for pilots and passengers. Specifications of Piper Comanche include details about its dimensions, weight, and configuration. The cockpit integrates modern instrumentation and ergonomic controls for efficient operation. An engine powers Piper Comanche, contributing to its reliable performance. Learn about Piper Comanche's interior, specifications, cockpit, engine, and performance.

Piper Comanche features a low-wing monoplane design with semi-monocoque construction. The aircraft incorporates retractable tricycle landing gear which reduces drag during flight operations. Wingspan remains consistent across models to ensure aerodynamic efficiency. Length and height measurements vary between variants while empty weight impacts overall performance capabilities. Maximum takeoff weight determines operational flexibility for different missions. Fuel capacity and engine performance define key aspects of aircraft design. Lycoming piston engines power the aircraft achieving a maximum speed of 194 knots in high-performance models. Optional auxiliary tanks extend range for long-distance flights.

The cockpit configuration provides seating for four occupants in standard layout while larger variants accommodate up to six passengers. Flight instruments are arranged in classic "sacred six" configuration with crucial controls positioned for logical accessibility. Enclosed yoke design enhances handling precision and pilot comfort. Vertically adjustable seats accommodate taller pilots effectively. Rear seats are removable to increase baggage space when needed. Avionics suite reflects era-specific technology with basic analog instrumentation including communication and navigation tools. Owners upgrade avionics with modern systems like ADS-B transponders and GPS units. Instrument panel readability benefits from straightforward layout design. Visibility and accessibility define cockpit functionality with wide supportive seats improving comfort. Single starboard entry door facilitates efficient access for pilots and passengers.

What is the Piper PA-24 Comanche airplane?

The Piper PA-24 Comanche is a high-performance, single-engine airplane known for its robust construction, sleek low-wing design, and retractable tricycle landing gear. The Piper PA-24 Comanche features a four-seat or six-seat configuration, making it versatile for both personal and business travel. Powered by a Lycoming piston engine, the aircraft delivers reliable performance with models like the PA-24-400 achieving a maximum speed of 194 knots (224 mph). The low-wing monoplane design incorporates a semi-monocoque construction, securing structural integrity and aerodynamic efficiency. The retractable tricycle landing gear reduces drag, increasing the aircraft's speed and stability during flight. Recognized for its agility and high-performance characteristics, the Comanche remains a respected choice in general aviation.

The Piper Aircraft Company manufacturer plays a pivotal part in producing the Piper PA-24 Comanche, a light aircraft class designed for general aviation category. The Lycoming piston engine powers various models, including the Comanche 180, Comanche 250, and PA-24-260 Comanche, each offering distinct performance characteristics. The PA-24-400 Comanche achieves a maximum speed of 194 knots, showcasing the impact of its forceful engine on overall performance.

The Piper PA-24 Comanche cockpit configuration provides seating for four occupants, with some variants accommodating up to six passengers. The cockpit layout includes manual flap actuation controlled via a Johnson bar, similar to systems found in other Piper aircraft. Instrumentation consists of standard navigation and communication equipment suitable for general aviation use. Seating options emphasize versatility, catering to both personal and business aviation needs. The all-metal construction and sleek design further enhance the aircraft’s appeal within the general aviation sector.

Performance metrics of the Piper PA-24 Comanche highlight its agility and aerodynamic efficiency. The Comanche 180 achieves cruise speeds of 116 knots, while the 260 Comanche reaches 157 knots. Equipped with optional auxiliary tanks, the PA-24-260 extends its range to 625 nautical miles. Fuel consumption varies between 7.5 (28.39) and 10.5 (39.74) gallons per hour depending on power settings. The laminar flow airfoil and all-flying stabilator contribute to stable flight characteristics, making the aircraft a popular choice among pilots. The Piper PA-24 Comanche airplane model exemplifies a balance of performance, comfort, and usability in modern aviation design.

What are the specifications of the Piper Comanche?

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

The Piper Comanche’s physical dimensions vary across models. The PA-24-400 model has a length of 25 feet 8 inches (7.82 meters), while the PA-24-250 measures 24 feet 11 inches (7.59 meters) or 24 feet 10 inches (7.57 meters) for the 1964 variant. Both models share a wingspan of 36 feet (10.97 meters), with the PA-24-400 standing at a height of 7 feet 10 inches (2.39 meters) and the PA-24-250 at 7 feet 6 inches (2.29 meters) or 7 feet 5 inches (2.26 meters) for the 1964 version. Empty weight for the PA-24-400 is 2,110 pounds (957 kilograms), compared to 1,690 pounds (767 kilograms) for the PA-24-250. Maximum takeoff weight reaches 3,600 pounds (1,632.93 kilograms) for the PA-24-400 and ranges from 2,900 (1,315.42 kilograms) to 3,200 pounds (1,451.5 kilograms) for the PA-24-250. Fuel capacity and engine performance are aspects of the Piper Comanche’s design. Reserve fuel is 10% of total capacity. The PA-24-400 is powered by the Lycoming IO-720-A1A engine, producing 400 horsepower, whereas the PA-24-250 uses the Lycoming IO-540-A1A or IO-540-C engine, delivering 250 horsepower. Thrust data is not specified as the aircraft is propeller-driven. The retractable tricycle landing gear enhances aerodynamic efficiency during flight. Speed, range, and service ceiling define the Piper Comanche’s operational capabilities. Range varies , with the PA-24-400 covering 765 nautical miles and the PA-24-250 extending to 1,440 nautical miles. Takeoff and landing distances further illustrate the Piper Comanche’s versatility. Runway requirements remain relatively short for both models, to assure operational flexibility. The PA-24-400 delivers higher performance, while the PA-24-250 provides extended range with reduced power. Retractable tricycle landing gear ensures smooth ground handling and efficient flight characteristics.

The specifications of the Piper Comanche include its dimensions, weights, fuel capacity, engine performance, cruise speed, maximum speed, range, service ceiling, climb rate, and takeoff/landing distances. Both models include retractable tricycle landing gear, boosting aerodynamic efficiency during flight.

What is the range of the Piper Comanche?

The range of the Piper Comanche depends on the model, fuel capacity, and operational conditions. The PA-24-260 model achieves a range of 625 nautical miles. The PA-24-250 offers a maximum range of about 1,440 nautical miles under optimal conditions. Standard fuel capacity allows the Piper Comanche to reach a range of 782 nautical miles. Optional fuel tanks extend the range up to 2,665 kilometers (1,656 miles). Economic cruising conditions enable a range of around 1,300 kilometers (807 miles).

The Piper Comanche achieves a range of 782 nautical miles with standard fuel capacity, reflecting its performance under typical operational setups. Optimal conditions enable the aircraft to reach 875 statute miles, equivalent to 760 nautical miles. Standard fuel capacity allows the PA-24 Comanche to cover 1,448 kilometers (900 miles) during economic cruising, demonstrating efficient fuel utilization.

Full tanks extend the range of the Piper Comanche to 1,200 nautical miles, showcasing its extended operational capability. Economic cruising conditions further optimize fuel efficiency, providing a range of 1,300 kilometers (807 miles). These configurations highlight the adaptability of the PA-24 series to varying mission requirements.

The best range performance of the Piper Comanche reaches 983 nautical miles under optimal conditions. Optional fuel tanks enhance endurance, enabling a maximum range of 2,665 kilometers (1,656 miles). This extended capability underscores the versatility of the PA-24 Comanche for long-distance flights.

A 45-minute reserve reduces the range to 700 nautical miles, to guarantee safety margins during operations. This configuration aligns with practical considerations for pilots requiring additional fuel reserves. The PA-24 Comanche maintains reliable performance across different scenarios while accommodating reserve requirements.

What is the cruise speed of the Piper Comanche?

The cruise speed of the Piper Comanche depends on the model and configuration, with the PA-24-180 achieving 140 knots and the PA-24-250 reaching up to 160 knots in well-equipped conditions. The PA-24-180 model achieves a cruise speed of 140 knots with a carbureted 180-horsepower engine. At 75% power and lower altitudes, the PA-24-180 reaches speeds of 139 knots. The PA-24-250 model cruises at 160 knots in well-equipped conditions. Higher altitudes and 75% power enable the PA-24-250 to reach speeds of 190 knots. Optimal configurations allow the PA-24-400 to achieve a normal cruise speed of 185 knots and a maximum cruise speed of 194 knots.

At lower altitudes and 55% power, the Piper Comanche achieves cruise speeds around 116 knots, demonstrating efficient performance for fuel-conscious operations. At 75% power in similar conditions, the aircraft reaches speeds of 139 knots, providing a balance between speed and efficiency. Higher altitudes enhance performance, with the Comanche achieving speeds up to 190 knots at 75% power, showcasing its capability in optimized flight environments. The PA-24-180 model achieves a cruise speed of 140 knots with a carbureted 180-horsepower engine, while reaching speeds of 150 knots at full cruise in certain configurations. The PA-24-250 (Comanche 250) excels with a typical cruise speed of 160 knots (184 mph) in well-equipped conditions, and under maximum engine performance, it achieves 210 mph (338 km/h). Optimum configurations enable the Comanche 250 to reach an optimum cruise speed of 213 mph (342.8 km/h), highlighting its top-tier performance capabilities. The PA-24-400 further elevates the series with a normal cruise speed of 185 knots and a maximum cruise speed of 194 knots, solidifying its position as a high-performance aircraft within the Piper Comanche family.

What is the Piper Comanche cockpit like?

The Piper Comanche cockpit is like a classic design that prioritizes functionality and comfort. The cockpit layout features an ergonomic design typical of its era, with flight instruments arranged in the classic "sacred six" configuration. Key controls and engine monitoring dials are positioned on the right side of the instrument panel for logical accessibility. The enclosed yoke design enhances comfort while providing precise and responsive handling. Headroom measures up to 39 inches (99.06 cm), though taller pilots require modifications like custom cushions or vertically adjustable seats. The single starboard entry door emphasizes structural efficiency, facilitating pilot and passenger access.

The avionics suite modernity reflects the aircraft's era, featuring basic analog instrumentation without GPS navigation or advanced autopilot functions. The avionics suite capability includes important communication and navigation tools, supplemented by small dials for engine monitoring. Owners upgrade the cockpit with modern systems:ADS-B transponders, digital engine monitoring, and GPS units. Instrument panel readability benefits from a straightforward layout, with flight instruments arranged in the "sacred six" configuration to guarantee efficient instrument scanning. The instrument panel integration places vital engine controls on the right side, including the tachometer, manifold pressure gauge, and fuel flow meter. Small oblong dials for ancillary functions occupy the same area, minimizing pilot head movement during operations.

Visibility and accessibility define the cockpit design, with seating arrangement comfort improved by wide, supportive seats offering up to 39 inches (99 cm) of headroom. Seating arrangement adjustability remains limited as standard, but vertically adjustable seats from other Piper models accommodate taller pilots effectively. Flight controls precision ensures smooth handling throughout the flight envelope, endorsed by enclosed yokes that provide firm feedback. Flight controls responsiveness results from the aircraft's lightweight single-engine design. Pedestal configuration accessibility positions controls centrally, including the engine control quadrant and a telescopic lever for emergency undercarriage operation. Pedestal configuration integration blends functionality with safety, though it lacks the advanced systems found in modern aircraft.

Cabin design functionality emphasizes practicality, featuring a single starboard entry door that reinforces structural integrity while facilitating pilot and passenger access. Rear seats are removable to increase baggage space, and optional third-row seats remain rare. Variations across Piper Comanche models include minor upgrades to seating and avionics, but overall cockpit layouts remain consistent. Comparisons to similar aircraft highlight the Comanche’s balance of simplicity and efficiency, evident in its ergonomic layout and logical organization of controls.

Where can I find a Piper PA-24 Comanche for sale?

You can find a Piper PA-24 Comanche for sale on online aviation marketplaces like Trade-A-Plane, Barnstormers, and Controller.com. Websites like Barnstormers and Controller.com provide extensive listings of aircraft for sale, allowing buyers to filter by model, year, and condition. Trade-A-Plane offers 40 Piper Comanche listings, while Controller.com lists models with prices ranging from $64,900 to $349,900. Aircraft conditions vary, with some featuring original interiors and others equipped with modern avionics like ADSB and Garmin 480 WAAS. Detailed listings include location details: a 1959 PA-24-250 in Hudsonville, MI, and a 1962 PA-24-250 in Villa Hills, KY. Potential buyers contact sellers directly through listings, for personalized communication and negotiation.

Market prices for Piper PA-24 Comanche aircraft vary based on model year and condition. Aircraft classified listings show prices ranging from $64,900 for older models like the 1960 Comanche 180 to $349,900 for rarer variants, for instance the 1965 Comanche 400. Aircraft conditions differ, with some featuring original interiors and paint schemes while others include modern upgrades like ADSB and Garmin avionics. Listings provide detailed information about each aircraft’s condition, including ratings for paint, interior, and panel quality. A 1959 PA-24-250 has a paint rating of 5/10, an interior rating of 7/10, and a panel rating of 9/10. Online aviation marketplaces inventory availability allows buyers to filter by price, equipment, and location.

Certified Piper aircraft dealers offer authorized listings through official channels, providing access to a dealer network specializing in Piper aircraft. Aircraft brokerage firms assist buyers by facilitating communication between sellers and purchasers, handling negotiations, and managing paperwork. Broker contact information is included in classified listings to facilitate personalized sales. Partnering with these professionals ensures streamlined transactions and access to exclusive inventory not always available on public platforms. Aircraft auctions present additional opportunities for purchasing a Piper PA-24 Comanche. Auction schedules are published online or through aviation event calendars, allowing buyers to plan participation. The bidding process involves registering as a bidder and participating either in person or remotely. Auctions result in competitive pricing but require prompt decision-making due to their fast-paced nature.