Piper Reports 126 Percent Increase In Arrow, Archer, & Seminole Trainer Sales

    Posted On: August 8, 2018

    Led by deliveries of its Seminole model shown here, Piper Aircraft recently reported that sales of its trainer models increased 126 percent in Q2 2018 from Q2 2017. The Seminole uses two 180-horsepower Lycoming engines and provides training schools “exceptional operating economics,” Piper says. (Phot courtesy of Piper Aircraft.)

    Piper Aircraft reports that it experienced a 126 percent increase in sales of its trainer models for Q2 2018 compared to Q2 2017. Deliveries of the twin-engine Seminole (150 percent increase) led the way, while deliveries of Piper’s single-engine Arrow and Archer charted 85 percent combined growth. For 2018, Piper expects to deliver 100-plus models from its PA-28 series, described as a combination of single-engine Archers and single-engine, complex Arrows. Piper also expects Seminole sales to hit their highest level in 15-plus years. Piper also manufactures the M-Class series of business and personal use airplanes.

    On Order

    Piper says it has a “solid order book backlog” for its single- and twin-engine trainers heading into Q3 2019. Through 2019 and beyond, Piper will continue filling new sales orders to Auburn University, Epic Flight Academy, and Utah Valley University. Additionally, various existing customers have expanded their original orders. In a press release, Piper credited the “looming pilot shortage and the resulting demand for pilots” as driving demand.

    “Flight training organizations are selecting the Piper brand not only because we are the only OEM to provide a full trainer product lineup, but because of our demonstrated commitment to the trainer market,” said Ron Gunnarson, Piper Aircraft vice president of sales, marketing, and customer support. “It is our desire to develop long-term relationships with our customers that reach far beyond the sale of the aircraft.”


    Along with its single-engine Arrow trainer model, Piper Aircraft says it Archer model shown here combined for 85 percent combined growth in Q2 2018 compared to Q2 2017. (Photo courtesy of Piper Aircraft.)

    Talking Trainers

    Integrating the Garmin G1000 NXi avionics package and sporting a 180-horsepower Lycoming O-360-A4M engine standard, the Archer TX offers options for a fuel-injected Lycoming O-360-B4A engine or diesel Continental CD-155 engine. Using a 200-horsepower Lycoming engine, the Arrow is the “only complex single-engine training aircraft built today,” according to Piper. The aircraft also “provides an easy transition for students moving up to a complex aircraft.” The Seminole also includes G1000 NXi avionics, as well as two 180-horsepower Lycoming engines. Piper touts the Seminole as offering “exceptional operating economics.”

    If you’re looking for a Piper trainer or M-Class model, Controller.com has numerous used models for sale, including used Piper M350s, M600s, Senecas, Warriors, Archers, and Arrows.

    Source: Piper Aircraft

    Questions? Comments? Visit the Controller Forums to ask questions, get answers, and share your thoughts.

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