The Piper Twin Comanche (PA-30/PA-39) is one of the most efficient piston twins ever built — small, fast, and economical, offering twin redundancy on modest fuel.
Key takeaways
- Efficient twin: twin redundancy on low fuel burn.
- Fast for the power: a slick, capable airframe.
- Two small engines keep twin costs manageable.
About the Piper Twin Comanche
The Twin Comanche pairs two small Lycoming IO-320 engines with a slick airframe, cruising around 180 knots on modest fuel — remarkable efficiency for a twin. It's a classic; engine times, gear systems, and corrosion matter, and a type-experienced pre-buy is wise.
| Specification | Piper Twin Comanche |
|---|---|
| Type | Efficient light piston twin |
| Engine | 2 × Lycoming IO-320 (~160 hp each) |
| Cruise | ~180 knots |
Typical used price (2026): ~$70,000–$160,000. Condition, avionics, and engine time drive value within that range.
Is the Piper Twin Comanche Right for You?
The Piper Twin Comanche suits owners who want twin-engine redundancy, capability, or a platform for multi-engine training. It's a bigger commitment than a single — two engines to maintain and insure, and a multi-engine rating — so weigh the capability against the real operating cost.
Ownership & Operating Costs
- Fuel: two engines burn roughly double a single.
- Insurance: higher than a single; sensitive to multi-engine time.
- Two engine reserves: reserve per hour toward each overhaul.
- Maintenance: more systems and two powerplants than a single.
For a full framework across models, see our aircraft ownership cost guide.
What to Check When Buying
Evaluate both engines' times and compressions, the gear and any pressurization, damage history, and complete logs — and get a bindable multi-engine insurance quote before you commit. Use a twin-experienced shop.
Financing a Piper Twin Comanche
A Piper Twin Comanche finances as a piston twin — around 20% down over 15–20 years — with lenders weighing two engines and insurance priced on your multi-engine time and rating. Jaken Aviation is a brokerage, not a lender — we shop your loan across a national network of aviation lenders.
Prices, specifications, and financing figures are illustrative for the 2026 market and are not offers of credit. Jaken Aviation is a licensed aircraft financing brokerage — a division of Jaken Finance Group — and does not make loan decisions. All financing is subject to lender approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a twin like the Piper Twin Comanche worth the extra cost?
It depends on your mission. A twin adds redundancy and capability but roughly doubles fuel and adds a second engine to maintain and insure. Budget the full operating picture.
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