Published online Midwest Flyer Magazine – February/March 2021
Jim Barrett Photography
VERO BEACH, FLA. – Piper Aircraft announced December 15, 2020 that it has received type certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the “Pilot 100i.” The Pilot 100i, which was announced during Sun-n-Fun in 2019, is the value priced addition to Piper’s trainer-class line. Following certification, Piper began deliveries to its launch customer, American Flyers, which will be taking delivery of eight (8) Pilot 100i aircraft.
“We are excited to add the Pilot 100 series to our training product line at a price point that provides optimal economics for all operators,” said Piper President and CEO, Simon Caldecott. “During these uncertain times, our team has con-tinued to remain focused and has worked diligently to bring to market an aggressively priced, proven trainer that offers the advanced systems and performance that flight schools and airline programs of all sizes desire.”
Piper Aircraft Inc., headquartered in Vero Beach, Fla., offers aviators throughout the world efficient and reliable single- and twin-engine aircraft and is the first general aviation aircraft manufacturer in the world to certify Garmin Autoland. The single-engine M-Class series – the M600SLS, M500, and M350 – offers businesses and individuals elegant performance, value and a superior ownership experience. The Personal Class Seneca V, Archer LX and Archer DLX balance proven performance, efficiency, and simplicity in a piston-powered aircraft. The new Piper Pilot 100i rounds off Piper’s portfolio of training aircraft products: Pilot 100i, Archer TX, Archer DX, Arrow, and Seminole. For 2021, flight schools now have an option for a factory new, robust trainer that is priced under $300,000 and is IFR equipped with digital autopilot. (https://www.piper.com/).