Piper Cherokee 180 Beginner's Guide
Powerful performance with mid-range pricing
Complete beginner-focused guide to mid-range aircraft ownership
Why the Piper Cherokee 180
The Piper Cherokee 180 represents excellent value in the mid-range aircraft market. With 180 hp, fixed gear simplicity, and proven reliability, the Cherokee 180 offers more performance than trainers at moderate cost.
Excellent Power-to-Price Ratio
180 hp provides meaningful performance improvement over 160 hp trainers. Cruise at 120 mph, climb at 700+ fpm, and carry respectable useful load. More capability than 172 at similar or lower price.
Simple Fixed-Gear Design
Fixed landing gear eliminates retractable complexity and maintenance. Simple systems mean lower maintenance costs and broader mechanic availability.
Proven Piper Reliability
Built on proven Piper design principles with excellent worldwide support. Piper aircraft are known for reliability and longevity.
Excellent Value
Cherokee 180s offer the sweet spot between affordability and capability. Used prices typically $60-100K—very reasonable for the performance delivered.
Piper Cherokee 180 Pricing
Market Price Ranges
- 1970s Models: $45,000-$60,000
- 1980s Models: $60,000-$80,000
- 1990s+ Models: $80,000-$100,000
Financing a Cherokee 180
Down Payment & Loan Structure
For a $75,000 Piper Cherokee 180:
- 10% down ($7,500): Finance $67,500. 12-year at 7% = $674/month
- 15% down ($11,250): Finance $63,750. 12-year at 7% = $637/month
- 20% down ($15,000): Finance $60,000. 12-year at 7% = $600/month
Operating Costs for Cherokee 180
Annual Fixed Costs
- Insurance: $1,800-$2,800
- Annual Inspection: $1,200-2,000
- Hangar: $250-400/month
- Registration/Misc: $400-800
Total Fixed: $4,500-$7,500/year
Variable Operating Costs
- Fuel: Cherokee burns 8-9 gph. At $7/gallon = $56-63/hour
- Maintenance: $30-45/hour
- Engine Reserve: $10-12/hour
Variable Per Hour: $100-$130
Total Ownership (150 hours/year)
- Fixed: $6,000
- Variable (150 hours × $115): $17,250
- Loan payment (12-year, $60K at 7%): $600/month ($7,200/year)
- Total Annual: $30,450
- Cost Per Hour: $203
Next Steps: Cherokee 180 Ownership
- Calculate budget. Use our affordability calculator
- Get pre-approved. Contact lenders for Cherokee 180 financing
- Research mechanics. Find local Cherokee 180 specialists
- Get insurance quotes. Verify costs for your profile
- Arrange pre-buy. Hire experienced mechanic
- Start your journey! Join the Cherokee owner community
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a used Piper Cherokee 180 cost?
Used Piper Cherokee 180s range from $45,000-$100,000 depending on year, engine, and condition. 1970s models ($45-60K), 1980s models ($60-80K), 1990s+ models ($80-100K). Excellent value in the mid-range market.
What makes Piper Cherokee 180 special?
Cherokee 180s offer excellent value with moderate performance. More power than 172s, simpler than retractables, proven reliability, and affordable pricing. Popular for flight training and personal use.
What are typical Cherokee 180 operating costs?
Expect $1,800-$2,800 for insurance, $1,200-2,000 for annual, $250-400/month hangar, plus $50-70/hour fuel and maintenance. Total fixed: $4,500-$7,500/year. Variable: $100-130/hour. For 150 hours: roughly $22,000-27,000 total.
How does Cherokee 180 compare to Cessna 172?
Cherokee 180 has more power (180 hp vs 172's 160 hp), slightly faster cruise (120 vs 100 mph), better climb, and higher useful load. Similar reliability and maintenance costs. Cherokee 180 offers more performance at similar price point.
Can I finance a used Cherokee 180?
Yes, most lenders finance Cherokee 180s readily. Excellent collateral with proven resale value. Expect 10-15% down, rates 6-8% for qualified buyers. Lower prices mean straightforward financing.
What maintenance is typical for Cherokee 180s?
Simple fixed-gear systems with proven reliability. Annual inspection typically $1,200-2,000. Engine overhaul ($18,000-22,000) expected at 2,000 hours. Very affordable to own and maintain.
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