Piper PA-24 Comanche: Speed, Style, and Underrated Range
The Piper PA-24 Comanche is often called one of the most underrated aircraft in general aviation. Introduced in 1958, it marked Piper’s entry into the modern, low-wing, all-metal touring aircraft market—built to compete directly with Beechcraft’s Bonanza and Cessna’s 210.
While it never reached the production numbers of its competitors, the Comanche earned a loyal following thanks to its clean lines, solid performance, and efficient cross-country capability.
Development and Design
The PA-24 was Piper’s first monoplane with retractable gear, monocoque construction, and all-metal skin. Designed by Fred Weick (also behind the Ercoupe and later the Cherokee), the Comanche was a significant step up from Piper’s fabric-covered legacy aircraft.
Key features of the early models:
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Low-wing, retractable tricycle gear
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Lycoming O-320 or O-360 engines (on the 180 and 250 variants)
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Clean, laminar-flow wing
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Optional tip tanks, raising total fuel capacity to 120 gallons
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Cruise speeds of 140–160+ knots depending on model
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Range in excess of 1,000 nautical miles in long-range configurations
Piper later released more powerful versions, including the Comanche 260, 260B/C, and PA-24-400, the latter powered by a 400 hp Lycoming IO-720.
PA-24-250: The Most Popular Variant
Among the most beloved versions is the Comanche 250, powered by a Lycoming O-540 engine producing 250 hp. It offered a good balance of:
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Speed (~160 knots cruise)
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Fuel burn (~12–14 GPH)
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Climb performance (~1,300 FPM at sea level)
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Useful load (~1,300–1,400 lbs depending on configuration)
Pilots appreciated the 250 for being a comfortable, stable IFR platform with enough performance to make long cross-country flights efficient and enjoyable. It also retained the classic Piper feel in handling, while delivering more muscle than the Cherokee line.
Flying the Comanche
The Comanche has a reputation for being slippery and fast, especially in descent, and requires good energy management. But pilots familiar with the type often describe it as smooth, predictable, and solid.
“It’s the kind of airplane that rewards smooth hands. Once you learn it, it feels like a sports car in the sky.”
— Comanche 250 owner, Arizona
“I’ve owned three different aircraft over 40 years. The Comanche is the one I kept.”
— Longtime PA-24 pilot
A Survivor with a Cult Following
Production of the Comanche ended in 1972 after a flood damaged Piper’s Lock Haven facility, destroying jigs and tooling. While the line never resumed, thousands of Comanches remain flying, thanks to a strong owner community and excellent parts support from third parties.
Modern owners often upgrade their aircraft with:
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Engine monitors and GPS/IFR avionics
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Speed mods and gap seals
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Tip tanks or fuel bladders
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Modern paint and interiors
Represent the Comanche Community
The Comanche has always been a bit of an underdog—but that’s part of what makes it special. If you’ve flown one, own one, or simply admire its blend of speed and efficiency, this shirt was made with you in mind.
Legal Disclaimer
All artwork and designs are original creations inspired by historical and modern aircraft. Any model numbers or manufacturer names used are for descriptive purposes only. These products are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any aircraft manufacturer.