About the PIPER PA-36-285
The Piper PA-36-285, also commonly referred to as the Piper Pawnee Brave, is an agricultural aircraft that originated from the Piper Aircraft Corporation, a prominent American manufacturer known for producing reliable and versatile general aviation aircraft. The PA-36 series was intended to serve the niche market of aerial application, commonly known as crop dusting or spraying, which is an essential service in agriculture for the distribution of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers over large areas of farmland. The 285 in the designation signifies the Pratt & Whitney R-985 engine's horsepower used in this model, which stands as a strong feature providing ample power for heavy-duty agricultural tasks. Production of the PA-36 began in the early 1970s, with the aircraft first taking to the skies in 1973. One of the main motivations for its production was to replace the aging fleet of Piper PA-25 Pawnees, which had been one of the most widely-used agricultural aircraft of its time. The PA-36-285 offered various improvements over its predecessor, most notably in payload capacity, power, and efficiency. The aircraft's rugged construction, with its steel tube frame and aluminum skin, made it particularly durable under the harsh conditions often encountered in agricultural operations. The PA-36-285 could carry a substantial chemical load, enhancing efficiency by reducing the number of trips needed to cover a given area. Additionally, its design featured a more comfortable and safer cockpit for the pilot, complete with improved visibility and ergonomic controls. This model was part of a broader effort by Piper Aircraft to cement a stronger presence in the agricultural aviation sector during the 1970s. Production continued until the early 1980s, with several hundred units built, securing its place as a significant player in agricultural aviation during its time of service. The Piper PA-36-285 remains a respected and reliable aircraft in the segments of aerial application and agricultural services.