Piper Comanche vs Piper Arrow
The Piper Comanche and the Piper Arrow are both low-wing retractable-gear Pipers, but they come from different eras and missions. The PA-24 Comanche is the older, faster traveler — 250 hp, ~160 kt, and big tanks for genuine long-leg range — with a dedicated type community supporting an out-of-production airframe. The PA-28R Arrow is the simpler, more plentiful complex trainer: 200 hp, ~137 kt, and the classic stepping-stone to a retractable-gear and constant-speed-prop endorsement. The Comanche is more airplane for serious travel; the Arrow is easier to insure, support, and step up into.
Key specifications, side by side
| Piper Comanche | Piper Arrow | |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Engine | Lycoming O-540-A (PA-24-250) | Lycoming IO-360 (PA-28R-201) |
| Horsepower | 250 hp | 200 hp |
| Cruise speed | ~160 kt | ~137 kt |
| Range | ~1,000 nm | ~880 nm |
| Useful load | ~1,250 lb | ~1,150 lb |
| Fuel (usable) | 60 gal (90 optional) | 72 gal |
| Landing gear | Retractable 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 Comanche
- A fast, low-wing retractable from before the Cherokee — 160+ kt on modest fuel with big tanks for genuine long-leg range.
- Suits a pilot who wants a lot of capable, efficient traveling airplane for the money and will join an active type community.
- Out of production for decades, so some parts come through type clubs and specialists — a shared maintenance kitty and a knowledgeable mechanic matter.
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 Comanche vs Piper Arrow — frequently asked questions
Quick answers for buyers and prospective co-owners.
Is the Piper Comanche faster than the Arrow?
Yes. The 250 hp Comanche cruises around 160 kt against about 137 kt for the 200 hp Arrow, and its larger optional tanks give longer legs. The Arrow trades that speed for simpler ownership and easier parts and insurance.
Which is easier and cheaper to own?
The Arrow. It is more plentiful, simpler, and still in widespread training use, so parts, mechanics, and insurance are easier to come by. The Comanche has been out of production for decades, so some parts run through type clubs and specialists — a knowledgeable mechanic and a shared maintenance kitty matter.
Which should I choose?
Choose the Arrow for a forgiving, well-supported first complex airplane or commercial time-builder. Choose the Comanche if you want more speed, range, and capability for the money and will join its active type community to keep it well maintained.