About the PIPER PA-42
The Piper PA-42, commonly known as the Piper Cheyenne, is a family of high-performance, twin-engine turboprop aircraft developed by Piper Aircraft. The PA-42 was an evolution of the earlier Piper PA-31T Cheyenne I and II, which were themselves turboprop adaptations of the PA-31 Navajo, a piston-engine aircraft. Introduced to the market in 1979, the PA-42 was manufactured across different variants until the late 1980s, catering primarily to the business aviation sector, air taxi services, and private ownership.
The development of the PA-42 was motivated by a gap in the market for a high-speed, pressurized turboprop that could offer the performance of a small jet but with the efficiency and operational flexibility of a turboprop. Piper sought to create an aircraft that would appeal to corporate operators and individuals who required a reliable and cost-effective solution for regional travel.
Key Features and Capabilities
The original PA-42 Cheyenne III was equipped with Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-41 engines, which offered excellent reliability and power. It was later followed by the PA-42-720 Cheyenne IIIA, which featured more powerful PT6A-61 engines for improved performance. The PA-42-1000 Cheyenne IV, called the "Cheyenne 400LS", was introduced as the highest-performing model in the series, boasting PT6A-68 engines and a number of aerodynamic enhancements, including winglets.
The PA-42 series is renowned for its speed, range, and flexibility in various operational settings. It provided an attractive alternative to light jets due to its lower operating costs and ability to operate from shorter runways. The spacious, pressurized cabin could comfortably accommodate up to 9 passengers, making it suitable for corporate travel and small group charters. Despite its relatively short production run, the PA-42 remains a popular aircraft on the second-hand market due to its robust performance and versatility.
Market Position and Use Cases
Overall, the Piper PA-42 Cheyenne established itself as a significant player in the turboprop market, offering a blend of efficiency, performance, and comfort that continues to be valued by aviation enthusiasts and operators alike.