Piper Cherokee vs Piper Arrow
The Piper Cherokee and the Piper Arrow are close cousins in the PA-28 family, so the comparison is about simplicity versus complexity. The fixed-gear Cherokee is one of the most economical and predictable singles to own — an ideal first airplane and first partnership. The Arrow adds retractable gear and a constant-speed prop, making it the classic complex-endorsement and commercial time-builder with a bit more speed, at a modest premium in insurance and maintenance.
Key specifications, side by side
| Piper Cherokee | Piper Arrow | |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Engine | Lycoming O-360 (PA-28-180) | Lycoming IO-360 (PA-28R-201) |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 200 hp |
| Cruise speed | ~120 kt | ~137 kt |
| Range | ~560 nm | ~880 nm |
| Useful load | ~1,000 lb | ~1,150 lb |
| Fuel (usable) | 48 gal | 72 gal |
| Landing gear | Fixed tricycle | Retractable tricycle |
Representative figures for a popular variant of each family — exact specs vary by model year, engine, and avionics configuration.
What's different about the Piper Cherokee
- Low-wing layout and a single cabin door give it a sportier feel than the high-wing Cessnas.
- The simple, fixed-gear PA-28 airframe is inexpensive to maintain and one of the most common trainers after the 172.
- The stable laminar "Hershey-bar" wing is predictable; later tapered-wing models add a little speed.
What's different about the Piper Arrow
- Retractable gear and a constant-speed prop make it the classic complex-endorsement and commercial time-builder.
- ~137 kt cruise on 200 hp — noticeably faster and more efficient than the fixed-gear Cherokee it is based on.
- Some years add automatic gear extension; insurance and maintenance run higher than a fixed-gear PA-28.
Piper Cherokee vs Piper Arrow — frequently asked questions
Quick answers for buyers and prospective co-owners.
What is the difference between a Piper Cherokee and an Arrow?
Complexity. Both are PA-28s, but the Cherokee is fixed-gear with a fixed-pitch prop while the Arrow adds retractable gear and a constant-speed prop, giving it a bit more speed (~137 vs ~120 kt) at a higher maintenance and insurance cost.
Which is cheaper to own?
The Cherokee. Fixed gear and simpler systems make it one of the most economical and predictable four-seat singles, ideal for a first airplane or partnership. The Arrow’s retractable gear adds inspection, insurance, and upkeep cost.
Why would I choose the Arrow?
For complex time. The Arrow is the classic complex-endorsement and commercial time-builder; if you want retractable-gear and constant-speed-prop experience plus a little more speed, it is the natural step up from a Cherokee.