Piper Aircraft

The Piper PA-28 Cherokee model first burst on the aircraft scene in the 1960s. These two- and four-seat models offered a single-engine design that was piston powered. The models also boasted low wings with a metal construction. Lightweight and considered ideal for training, personal and business use, the Piper PA-28 Cherokee line was and remains a favorite Piper creation of many.

The models were tweaked and changed through the years, but the overall lightweight, low wing design tended to stay with the models. Although the "Cherokee" name has technically been lost from the Piper PA-28 Cherokee line, the Piper company still makes a variety of PA-28 models. In addition, many Piper PA-28 Cherokee models remain in the air today. Some rental companies still tout the Cherokee name in their listings, standing testament to this model's durability by design. Many Cherokees can also be found in flyable condition on the used market, as well. This speaks volumes about the design and construction Piper put into these planes.

The Piper company itself was founded in the 1930s. Its mission was to create high quality, yet affordable aircraft in a variety of classes. From training and personal planes to jet models, Piper remains an industry leader today. Although it has undergone corporate ownership changes, and more than its share of growing pains, the Piper company's line is extensive. While the "Cherokee" is technically out of the mix, a variety of PA-28s are still produced. The company still seems to hold true to its affordable quality mission, too.

The remaining PA-28s in the Piper line cut across the business and training classes. The Archer III, for example, is a PA-28 class plane designed for business use. The 24-footer seats four and has a maximum speed of 133 knots. Other PA-28 models still exist in the training line, as well. Examples include the Warrior and the Arrow III. Their technical specifications vary, but the basic construction quality tends to be consistent throughout the line.

In its earlier heyday, the Cherokee competed against a number of other top-name aircraft. Some of its comparable competitors included Cessna and Beechcraft.

Although it has been reworked, redesigned altered through the years, the Piper PA-28 Cherokee remains in essence a part of this flying company's long-standing tradition. With spin off models still being produced and many of the original craft still in the air, the earlier Cherokees speak to Piper's ability to deliver durability and quality in the same package as affordability.

Piper Aircraft |