About the PIPER PA-24-180
The Piper PA-24-180 Comanche, introduced in 1958, was a significant stride in the realm of general aviation. Manufactured by Piper Aircraft, the Comanche series came to life after the company recognized the market's growing demand for more advanced and comfortable private aircraft. Positioned to bridge the gap between the simpler models like the Piper Cub and more complex twin-engine aircraft, the PA-24-180 aimed to offer a balance of performance, comfort, and affordability. The '180' in its designation referred to the 180-horsepower Lycoming O-360-A1A engine that powered the aircraft, providing a good mix of fuel efficiency and power. This particular model was primarily targeted at private pilots and small business owners who needed reliable and cost-efficient air travel means. It was a four-seat, single-engine, low-wing aircraft designed with retractable landing gear which became a hallmark for subsequent designs in this series. The PA-24-180 boasted a metal airframe, a departure from the fabric-covered designs of many earlier Piper models, which contributed to its improved durability and performance characteristics. The aircraft was lauded for its handling capabilities, relatively high cruising speed of around 140 knots, and a range of about 800 nautical miles, making it suitable for longer trips beyond the limitations of many other light aircraft of the time. Notably, the PA-24-180 set the stage for the evolution of the Comanche series, including more powerful versions like the PA-24-250 and the PA-24-400. The PA-24-180's introduction marked Piper Aircraft's commitment to innovation and responsiveness to pilot needs, distilling performance, reliability, and comfort into a single-engine aircraft that has left a lasting impact on general aviation.