Number 75 of 100 in 100: The Piper PA-23 Apache ✈️
Conceptualization:
In the early 1950s, the aviation community was eager for an aircraft that offered enhanced safety, extended range, and greater versatility, especially for cross-country flights and multi-engine training. Recognizing this demand, Piper Aircraft, traditionally known for single-engine planes like the iconic Piper Cub, decided to venture into the light twin-engine market. This move was bolstered by Piper's acquisition of the Stinson Division from Consolidated Vultee Aircraft Corporation, which provided access to the "Twin Stinson" design—a prototype that inspired the development of the PA-23 Apache.
Piper's vision for the PA-23 was ambitious yet practical: to create a twin-engine aircraft that was both affordable and user-friendly for private pilots and flight schools. The market was ready for a multi-engine plane that could cater to both budding aviators and experienced flyers. With this in mind, the PA-23 Apache emerged as a practical, reliable, and capable solution, meeting the evolving needs of a rapidly growing aviation community.
Original Design:
The Piper PA-23 Apache was a practical and innovative aircraft. Its twin-engine design offered enhanced safety and redundancy over single-engine planes, making multi-engine aviation more accessible to private owners and flight schools. The early models were powered by two 150 hp Lycoming O-320 engines, providing sufficient power for both training and personal use.
Departing from Piper's traditional fabric-covered aircraft, the Apache featured an all-metal construction, which improved durability and reduced maintenance needs. Its low-wing monoplane design provided excellent stability and predictable handling—essential qualities for a training aircraft. The retractable tricycle landing gear not only reduced drag but also gave the Apache a sleek, modern look. These combined features made the Apache a versatile aircraft, excelling in both training settings and personal aviation.
Photo Credit: airliners.net - Angel Moreno
Principal Designer:
The Piper PA-23 Apache's development was a collaborative effort by Piper Aircraft's engineering team, showcasing the expertise and ingenuity of the era’s aviation innovators. The aircraft’s design originated from the "Twin Stinson" project, which, as mentioned above, Piper inherited from the Consolidated Vultee Aircraft Corporation. Piper’s engineers extensively remodeled this initial concept, transforming it into a practical and reliable light twin-engine aircraft.
This redesign process demonstrated Piper’s ability to blend innovation with practicality. The Apache’s success highlighted Piper Aircraft's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of private pilots and flight schools during a time of rapid growth in the aviation industry.
Production Run:
The Piper PA-23 Apache made its debut in 1954, marking the start of a successful era for this pioneering twin-engine aircraft. Production of the Apache continued until 1962, with approximately 2,047 units built. In 1959, Piper introduced the more powerful and versatile Aztec variant, which quickly became a favorite. The Aztec remained in production until 1981, with 5,000 units manufactured.
Throughout its production run, the PA-23 series experienced shifts in demand. Apache production peaked in the late 1950s but declined as the Aztec gained popularity. The Aztec’s enhanced performance and capacity ensured its relevance well into the 1970s. By the time production ended, over 7,000 PA-23 aircraft had been built, cementing its legacy as a cornerstone of Piper’s twin-engine lineup.
Evolution:
The Piper PA-23 series underwent significant evolution throughout its production, introducing key variants and upgrades that enhanced its performance and versatility. The original Apache was equipped with two 150 hp Lycoming O-320 engines, providing adequate power for its intended roles. In the late 1950s, Piper introduced the PA-23-160 Apache, featuring more powerful 160 hp Lycoming O-320 engines. This upgrade improved climb rates and overall performance, making the Apache a more capable aircraft for both training and personal use.
A significant milestone in the PA-23 series was the introduction of the Aztec in 1959. Equipped with 250 hp Lycoming O-540 engines, the Aztec offered substantially better performance and could accommodate six passengers, compared to the Apache's four. Over the years, Aztec models incorporated advanced features such as turbocharging, aerodynamic refinements, and modern avionics. These improvements kept the PA-23 series competitive and adaptable, effectively serving the diverse needs of pilots and operators in both personal and commercial aviation sectors.
Photo Credit: airliners.net - Óscar Josué Elvir Vásquez - HN Spotters
Specifications:
Piper PA-23-250F Specifications:
General Characteristics:
- Crew: 1
- Capacity: 5 passengers
- Length: 31 ft 2+3⁄4 in (9.519 m)
- Wingspan: 37 ft 2+1⁄2 in (11.341 m)
- Height: 10 ft 4 in (3.15 m)
- Wing area: 207.56 sq ft (19.283 m2)
- Aspect Ratio: 6.8:1
- Airfoil: USA 35B (modified)
- Empty weight: 3,180 lb (1,442 kg)
- Max takeoff weight: 5,200 lb (2,359 kg)
- Fuel capacity: 140 US gal (120 imp gal; 530 L) usable fuel (normal), optional extra tanks with 40 US gal (33 imp gal; 150 L)
- Powerplant: 2 × Lycoming IO-540-C4B5 normally aspirated air-cooled flat-six piston engines, 250 hp (190 kW) each
- Propellers: 2-bladed Hartzell HC-E2YK-2RB constant-speed propellers
Performance:
- Maximum speed: 215 mph (346 km/h, 187 kn)
- Cruise speed: 172 mph (277 km/h, 149 kn) at 10,200 ft (3,100 m) (long-range cruise)
- Stall speed: 68 mph (109 km/h, 59 kn) (flaps down)
- Never exceed speed: 277 mph (446 km/h, 241 kn)
- Range: 1,519 mi (2,445 km, 1,320 nmi) at long-range cruise
- Service ceiling: 18,950 ft (5,780 m) (absolute ceiling)
- Rate of climb: 1,400 ft/min (7.1 m/s)
- Takeoff distance to 50 ft (15 m): 1,695 ft (517 m)
- Landing distance from 50 ft (15 m): 1,695 ft (517 m)
In Comparison to Other Aircraft in its Class:
When comparing the Piper PA-23-250 Aztec F to others in its class, such as the Beechcraft Baron 55 and the Cessna 310, several distinctions emerge. The Aztec F's maximum takeoff weight of 5,200 pounds surpasses both the Baron 55's 5,100 pounds and the Cessna 310's 4,600 pounds, allowing for a higher useful load, which is advantageous for missions with substantial passenger and cargo transport. In terms of range, the Aztec F offers approximately 1,320 nautical miles at long-range cruise, providing greater operational flexibility for longer flights compared to the Baron 55's 942 nautical miles and the Cessna 310's 870 nautical miles.
While the Aztec F's cruise speed of 149 knots is slightly lower than the Baron 55's 180 knots and the Cessna 310's 178 knots, its robust performance and reliability have made it a favored choice among pilots seeking a balance between speed and load-carrying capability. Overall, the Piper PA-23-250 Aztec F stands out in its class for its combination of capacity, range, and dependable performance, catering effectively to both personal and commercial aviation needs.
Performance:
Piper PA-23-250 Aztec Performance Envelope:
V-Speeds:
- V_SO (Stall Speed in Landing Configuration): 68 mph (59 knots)
- V_MC (Minimum Control Speed with One Engine Inoperative): 80 mph (70 knots)
- V_YSE (Best Rate of Climb Speed with One Engine Inoperative): 102 mph (89 knots)
- V_FE (Maximum Flap Extended Speed): 125 mph (109 knots)
- V_LE (Maximum Landing Gear Extended Speed): 150 mph (130 knots)
- V_LO (Maximum Landing Gear Operating Speed): 150 mph (130 knots)
- V_NO (Maximum Structural Cruising Speed): 190 mph (165 knots)
- V_NE (Never Exceed Speed): 277 mph (241 knots)
G-Load Limitations:
- Normal Category:
- Positive G Limit: +3.8 G
- Negative G Limit: -1.52 G
Performance Assessment:
The Piper PA-23-250 Aztec is a versatile aircraft, excelling in both training and personal aviation. Its twin-engine configuration provides an excellent platform for multi-engine training, allowing pilots to practice engine-out procedures and manage asymmetric thrust in a stable and predictable environment. For personal use, the Aztec's spacious cabin accommodates up to six occupants, and its substantial useful load makes it ideal for family trips or transporting gear. With an impressive range of approximately 1,519 miles and a cruise speed around 172 mph, it offers efficient cross-country travel. Whether instructing new pilots or serving as a reliable personal aircraft, the Aztec effectively balances performance, capacity, and dependability.
Photo Credit: airliners.net - Michael D. Barker ~ Aire Spain
Safety Record:
The Piper PA-23 has earned a respectable safety record, though it faces challenges common to many light twin-engine aircraft. One critical area is engine-out scenarios, which demand pilot proficiency to avoid serious accidents. Regular maintenance is also essential for aging airframes, including strict adherence to airworthiness directives to ensure continued safety.
Despite these challenges, the PA-23 holds its own against similar aircraft in its class. With proper training and diligent maintenance, it has proven to be a safe and reliable choice for thousands of pilots, offering a balance of performance and dependability that has stood the test of time.
Conclusion:
The Piper PA-23 series stands as a testament to Piper Aircraft’s ingenuity and adaptability. Whether as a training platform or a personal transport, it has earned its reputation as a reliable, versatile, and enduring design. Even today, the PA-23 remains a cherished part of the aviation community, embodying the spirit of accessible and capable general aviation.
Photo Credit: airliners.net - Cam
Bibliography:
Piper Aircraft Official Website
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
Essco Links:
Cessna 310