About the PIPER PA 46-350P
The Piper PA-46-350P, commonly known as the Piper Malibu Mirage, represents a significant evolution in general aviation aircraft. The PA-46 series was first introduced by Piper Aircraft in the early 1980s, with the Malibu Mirage debuting in 1988 as a piston-engine variant of the original Malibu. The primary motivation for the creation of the Malibu Mirage was to offer a high-performance, pressurized single-engine aircraft that could meet the needs of discerning private pilots and business travelers looking for a sophisticated and capable aircraft with enhanced performance and comfort features.
The Malibu Mirage is powered by a turbocharged Lycoming TIO-540-AE2A engine, capable of producing 350 horsepower, which allows it to achieve impressive speeds and altitudes. One of the key benefits of this aircraft is its pressurization system, which allows it to cruise comfortably at altitudes up to 25,000 feet, thus providing smoother rides above weather and turbulence, and offering more direct and efficient flight routes.
Key Features and Capabilities
In terms of design, the PA-46-350P includes a spacious and luxurious cabin, often described as being akin to a luxury automobile interior. The aircraft’s six seats, coupled with advanced avionics systems, such as the Garmin G1000 flight deck in later models, make it both pilot and passenger-friendly. These amenities cater particularly well to owner-pilots and corporate operators who value reliability, comfort, and technological sophistication.
Throughout its production span, spanning over decades, the Piper Malibu Mirage has undergone numerous upgrades and enhancements, ensuring it remains a competitive option in the general aviation market. Its blend of performance, comfort, and advanced avionics positions it well within the niche of high-end, pressurized single-engine piston aircraft, offering a compelling choice for pilots seeking a blend of practicality and luxury in their aviation experience. This makes the PA-46-350P a timelessly appealing aircraft within the general aviation community.