Piper Aircraft
PA-23-250 Aztec
The Piper PA‑23‑250 Aztec, introduced in 1959 by Piper Aircraft, represented the evolution of the company’s earlier PA‑23 series and quickly became one of the most popular twin‑engine light transports of the 1960s and 1970s. Developed from the four‑seat PA‑23‑150, the Aztec stretched the fuselage to accommodate six passengers, added a larger vertical stabilizer, and employed more powerful 250‑hp Lycoming O‑540 engines, giving it a maximum cruise speed of about 210 knots and a range exceeding 1,200 nautical miles.
Its low‑wing, all‑metal construction provided robust handling while the fully retractable landing gear reduced drag, contributing to its respectable climb performance and short‑field capability. The cockpit featured dual controls, an optional pressurization system, and later upgrades such as fuel‑injected engines and modern avionics, making the Aztec adaptable for corporate, air‑taxi, and utility missions.
The aircraft’s significance lies in its role as a bridge between piston twins and emerging turboprop transports. It demonstrated that a well‑engineered, twin‑engine piston aircraft could safely operate in commercial and remote environments, influencing later designs like the Piper Navajo and cementing Piper’s reputation in multi‑engine training and commuter operations worldwide.
Its low‑wing, all‑metal construction provided robust handling while the fully retractable landing gear reduced drag, contributing to its respectable climb performance and short‑field capability. The cockpit featured dual controls, an optional pressurization system, and later upgrades such as fuel‑injected engines and modern avionics, making the Aztec adaptable for corporate, air‑taxi, and utility missions.
The aircraft’s significance lies in its role as a bridge between piston twins and emerging turboprop transports. It demonstrated that a well‑engineered, twin‑engine piston aircraft could safely operate in commercial and remote environments, influencing later designs like the Piper Navajo and cementing Piper’s reputation in multi‑engine training and commuter operations worldwide.
Classification
Dimensions
- Length
- 9.52 metre
Production & History
- Units Produced
- 4,930
Design & Classification
- Country of Origin
- Manufacturer
- Piper Aircraft
- Developer
- Piper Aircraft
- Military Designation
- UO-1, U-11A, C-26
- Engine
- Lycoming O-540
- Operator
-
General Air
- Wikidata ID
- Q2096433