Piper Archer Specs: Your Ultimate Guide

Hey everyone, let's dive into the Piper Archer specs! If you're into aviation, or even just curious about it, the Piper Archer is a name you've probably heard. It's a super popular single-engine aircraft that's been a staple in flight schools and personal aviation for decades. We're going to break down everything from its dimensions and engine specs to its performance characteristics and what makes it such a reliable choice for pilots. So, buckle up, and let's get started on this deep dive into the Piper Archer! This detailed guide is your one-stop shop for understanding the ins and outs of this amazing aircraft. Whether you're a seasoned pilot, a student pilot, or just an aviation enthusiast, this article is designed to give you a comprehensive overview of the Piper Archer's specifications and features. We'll cover everything from the basic dimensions and weight limits to the engine specifications, performance data, and other key details. This is all about ensuring you have a solid understanding of this aircraft. The Piper Archer, also known as the PA-28-181, has a rich history and is known for its versatility and ease of handling. It is widely used for flight training, personal transportation, and other general aviation activities. It's a great aircraft and you will learn a lot. Ready to learn more about the Piper Archer specs?

Dimensions and Weights

Alright guys, let's start with the basics: dimensions and weights. Knowing these details is super important for understanding how the aircraft handles and what it's capable of. The Piper Archer is a relatively compact aircraft, which makes it easy to maneuver on the ground and park. Let's take a look at some key measurements. The wingspan of the Piper Archer is approximately 35 feet, 5 inches. This wingspan contributes to its stability and lift. The length of the aircraft is around 24 feet, 1 inch. This compact size makes it a great choice for various airfields. The height of the Piper Archer is approximately 8 feet, 4 inches. This measurement includes the vertical stabilizer. When it comes to weights, the Piper Archer has a maximum gross weight of around 2,550 pounds. This is the maximum weight the aircraft can be when fully loaded, including fuel, passengers, and baggage. The empty weight of the aircraft, which is the weight of the aircraft without passengers, fuel, or baggage, is typically around 1,600 pounds. This can vary depending on the specific model and equipment installed. The useful load is the difference between the maximum gross weight and the empty weight. This is the amount of weight the aircraft can carry, including fuel, passengers, and baggage. For the Piper Archer, the useful load is around 950 pounds. It's crucial to understand these weight limitations to ensure safe and efficient operation. Overloading the aircraft can lead to reduced performance and increased risks. These dimensions and weights are fundamental to understanding the Piper Archer. Always remember that these specifications can vary slightly depending on the specific model and any modifications. So, always refer to the aircraft's documentation for the most accurate information.

Detailed Breakdown

Let's get even more granular, shall we? Knowing these specs inside and out is crucial, especially if you're a pilot! Here is a more detailed breakdown. The wingspan, as mentioned, is roughly 35 feet and 5 inches (10.79 meters). This wingspan is key for lift generation and handling characteristics. The length of the aircraft is approximately 24 feet and 1 inch (7.34 meters). This length affects its maneuverability on the ground. The height is about 8 feet and 4 inches (2.54 meters). This is measured from the ground to the top of the vertical stabilizer. Now, for the weights: The maximum gross weight is around 2,550 pounds (1,157 kg). This is the maximum weight permitted for takeoff and landing. The empty weight typically hovers around 1,600 pounds (726 kg), but this varies based on equipment. The useful load is approximately 950 pounds (431 kg). It is a critical figure, as it defines what you can carry – fuel, passengers, and baggage. The Piper Archer is generally known for its balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It's a great plane to get familiar with these specifications. It’s also crucial to remember that these figures might vary slightly depending on the exact model (there are several versions of the PA-28-181). Always check the specific aircraft's Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) for exact numbers. That's your bible, so keep it handy!

Engine Specifications

Okay, let's talk about the heart of the beast: the engine specifications. The Piper Archer is typically powered by a Lycoming IO-360-B4AD engine. This engine is a four-cylinder, horizontally opposed, air-cooled engine, known for its reliability and efficiency. This specific engine is super important, so pay attention. The Lycoming IO-360-B4AD engine produces around 180 horsepower. The engine's horsepower provides sufficient power for both flight training and personal transportation. The engine is direct-drive, meaning the crankshaft is directly connected to the propeller. This simple design contributes to the engine's reliability. The engine's displacement is 360 cubic inches, which is where the