PA-31 Navajo is a versatile twin-engine light aircraft designed by Piper Aircraft, primarily used for light commercial transport, air taxi services, and personal use.

Known for its reliability, range, and spacious cabin, the Navajo has been a popular choice among operators and private owners since its introduction in the 1960s.

History and Development

The Piper PA-31 Navajo was developed in the 1960s in response to a growing demand for a light twin-engine aircraft that could serve the needs of small airlines, charter companies, and business aviation.

The Navajo was designed to fill the gap between smaller, single-engine aircraft and larger, more expensive multi-engine planes.

The aircraft made its first flight in 1964, and deliveries began shortly after. The PA-31 Navajo was designed to offer a balance of performance, comfort, and operating economy, making it suitable for a variety of roles, including commuter services, cargo transport, and executive travel.

Over the years, several variants of the PA-31 were developed, including the Chieftain, a stretched version with more powerful engines and increased capacity, and the Navajo Panther, an aftermarket modification with upgraded engines and enhanced performance.

Piper PA-31 Design and Features

The Piper PA-31 Navajo is a low-wing, twin-engine aircraft with a retractable tricycle landing gear. It features a pressurized cabin, which allows it to fly at higher altitudes for increased comfort and efficiency.

Key Features Include:

• Engines: The Navajo is typically powered by two Lycoming TIO-540-A2C engines, each producing 310 horsepower.
• Fuel Capacity: The aircraft has a standard fuel capacity of 182 gallons, with optional auxiliary tanks available.
• Cabin: The spacious cabin is designed to accommodate up to 8 passengers in a pressurized environment, offering a comfortable and quiet flight experience.
• Landing Gear: The retractable landing gear reduces drag, enhancing speed and fuel efficiency.

Piper PA-31 Specifications

Below are the specifications for the Piper PA-31 Navajo:

Specification	Piper PA-31 Navajo
Manufacturer	Piper Aircraft
First Flight	1964
Crew	1-2 (pilot/co-pilot)
Passenger Capacity	Up to 8 passengers
Length	32 ft 7 in (9.93 m)
Wingspan	40 ft 8 in (12.40 m)
Height	13 ft 5 in (4.09 m)
Empty Weight	4,400 lbs (1,996 kg)
Gross Weight	7,000 lbs (3,175 kg)
Powerplant	2 × Lycoming TIO-540-A2C, 310 hp each
Maximum Speed	227 mph (365 km/h, 197 knots)
Cruise Speed	210 mph (338 km/h, 183 knots)
Range	1,011 miles (1,627 km)
Service Ceiling	24,000 ft (7,315 m)
Rate of Climb	1,450 ft/min (7.4 m/s)

Piper PA-31 Performance

The Piper PA-31 Navajo is known for its strong performance, particularly in terms of range, speed, and payload capacity. It is capable of cruising at 183 knots (210 mph) while carrying up to eight passengers, making it a versatile and efficient choice for various aviation needs.

Performance Highlights:

• Pressurized Cabin: Allows for higher altitude flight, reducing travel time and enhancing passenger comfort.
• Fuel Efficiency: The aircraft’s design and engines offer a good balance of speed and fuel economy, making it cost-effective for operators.
• Handling: The Navajo is known for its stable and predictable handling characteristics, making it suitable for both experienced pilots and those transitioning to multi-engine aircraft.

Variants

Several variants of the PA-31 Navajo have been produced, each offering different performance and capacity options:

• PA-31 Navajo: The original version with 310 hp engines.
• PA-31-325 Navajo C/R: Features counter-rotating propellers to reduce the effects of engine-out asymmetry.
• PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain: A stretched version with more powerful engines (350 hp each) and increased capacity.
• Navajo Panther: An aftermarket modification with upgraded engines and avionics, offering improved performance and range.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Maintaining a Piper PA-31 Navajo involves regular inspections and adherence to maintenance schedules typical of twin-engine aircraft. Key maintenance considerations include:

• Engine Maintenance: Regular inspections and timely overhauls of the Lycoming TIO-540 engines are crucial for ensuring reliability and performance.
• Landing Gear: The retractable landing gear requires routine checks to ensure proper operation and avoid issues with retraction or extension.
• Pressurization System: The pressurized cabin system must be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure passenger safety and comfort at higher altitudes.

Piper PA-31 Price and Market Availability

The price of a Piper PA-31 Navajo varies based on factors such as age, condition, engine hours, and avionics upgrades.

prices typically range from:

• Used Piper PA-31 Navajo: $200,000 to $500,000

The aircraft is widely available on the used market, with many examples having been upgraded with modern avionics and interiors, enhancing their value and appeal.

FAQs

1. What is the Piper PA-31 Navajo?

• The Piper PA-31 Navajo is a twin-engine light aircraft designed for various purposes, including corporate transport, air taxi services, and private use. It was introduced by Piper Aircraft in the 1960s and is known for its reliability, range, and spacious cabin.

2. How many passengers can the Piper PA-31 Navajo carry?

• The Navajo can typically carry up to 8 passengers in a pressurized cabin, along with a crew of 1 or 2 pilots.

3. What engines are used in the Piper PA-31 Navajo?

• The Piper PA-31 Navajo is usually powered by two Lycoming TIO-540-A2C engines, each delivering 310 horsepower.

4. What is the maximum speed of the Piper PA-31 Navajo?

• The maximum speed of the Navajo is approximately 197 knots (227 mph or 365 km/h).

5. What is the range of the Piper PA-31 Navajo?

• The Piper PA-31 Navajo has a range of about 1,011 miles (1,627 km), making it suitable for medium-length flights.

6. What are the maintenance requirements for the Navajo?

• Regular engine inspections, landing gear checks, and maintenance of the pressurization system are essential for the PA-31 Navajo. Like all aircraft, adherence to scheduled maintenance is key to ensuring safety and performance.

7. How much does a Piper PA-31 Navajo cost?

• As of 2024, the price of a used Piper PA-31 Navajo typically ranges from $200,000 to $500,000, depending on factors such as condition, engine hours, and avionics upgrades.

8. What are the key differences between the PA-31 Navajo and the Navajo Chieftain?

• The Navajo Chieftain is a variant of the PA-31 with a stretched fuselage, more powerful engines (350 hp each), and increased passenger capacity, making it better suited for commercial operations.

9. Is the Piper PA-31 Navajo a good aircraft for long-distance travel?

• Yes, the Navajo is well-suited for long-distance travel, especially with its pressurized cabin and range of over 1,000 miles. It offers a comfortable ride for passengers and efficient fuel consumption for operators.

10. What are the common uses for the Piper PA-31 Navajo?

• The Navajo is commonly used for air taxi services, corporate travel, cargo transport, and as a personal aircraft for those who need a reliable and versatile twin-engine plane.