Piper Aircraft

The Piper Twin Comanche burst on the scene in 1963, continuing this aviation company's newly founded twin-engine tradition. With roots that dated back to the original Piper twin engine, the Apache, and also planted in the single-engine Comanche line, this model was a step above its predecessors and somewhat of a step below other models in the twin-engine line. Offering a solid twin-engine alternative, it became a popular model for a time.

Known for having seating up to six, the Piper Twin Comanche, however, did not cut corners on the quality. This particular model was a favorite in the Piper line from its debut until its demise in the 1970s. It offered a way to bridge the gap from where the Apache left off and other, more powerful and expensive, models began.

The Piper Twin Comanche initially featured two 160 hp Lycoming engines. It was known for having most of the standard options found on regular single-engine Comanche designs, but was a more powerful, modern version. This model, too, was considered an improvement over the final Apache. It was, however, not nearly as powerful as the company's largest twin-engine at the time, the Aztec. This craft initially featured 250 hp engines and had been on the market since the late 1950s.

The Piper Twin Comanche grew and changed with the times. A number of different models were created to upgrade the line. These included the twin Comanche B and a turbocharged version, as well. By 1970, the twin Comanche C reached the market, offering more speed and some other improvements, mostly to the interior.

Piper's foray into the twin-engine world began with a bang in the 1950s with the initial Apache. The mission was to continue to expand and upgrade while ensuring reasonable pricing. The Piper Twin Comanche offered another alternative. With some models in the line starting in the low $30,000s, the twin Comanche could appeal to both private buyers and small businesses, as well.

The Piper Aircraft tradition began in the 1930s with a desire to deliver top-notch flying craft at reasonable prices. Famous for its Cub class planes, the company remains today one of the leaders in the industry. From training planes to personal jets, Piper's line tends to cover all the bases in small craft. Although the Piper twin Comanche went out of production in 1972, the plane is assured a place in the company's history, which continues to be written.

Piper Aircraft |