Piper Arrow Cost of Ownership: Retractable Gear Training Aircraft and Performance Gains
The Piper Arrow is a classic single-engine aircraft that bridges the gap between fixed-gear trainers and high-performance retractable gear aircraft. With retractable landing gear and a constant-speed propeller, it's the ideal platform for complex aircraft training. Here's the complete financial picture of Arrow ownership.
Cost Overview: Piper Arrow
Purchase Price
$89,000–$169,000
Annual Fixed Costs
$6,300–$7,200
Hourly Operating Cost
$120–$150/hr
Fuel Burn
10–11.6 GPH
Purchase Cost: Understanding Piper Arrow Pricing
The Piper Arrow has been in production since 1967 with several iterations: the original PA-28R-180, the PA-28R-200 Arrow II, and the PA-28R-201 Arrow III (1977-present). Used inventory is plentiful, making this an accessible first step into retractable gear aircraft.
Current Market Prices (2024-2025):
Used Piper Arrows range widely by production year and condition. PA-28R-180 models (1967-1971) cost $70,000-$100,000. PA-28R-200 and early 201 models (1970s-1990s) range $89,000-$120,000. Later PA-28R-201 models (2000s+) command $120,000-$169,000. Typical mid-range Arrow in good condition averages $100,000-$130,000.
What Affects Arrow Pricing: Production year, total airframe hours, engine time since overhaul, propeller condition, avionics configuration, and maintenance history all impact value. Well-maintained examples with recent overhauls and glass panel avionics can approach $150,000+, while high-time aircraft with deferred maintenance may sell for $70,000-$80,000.
Fuel Consumption and Operating Economics
The Lycoming IO-360 engine in most Arrows is fuel-efficient compared to higher-performance retractables, though fuel consumption varies by model and power setting.
Fuel Burn Rates:
PA-28R-200 and 201 models burn approximately 10-11.6 gallons per hour at cruise power. The earlier PA-28R-180 burns roughly 10 GPH. Most pilots achieve best economy at 65% power (9-10 GPH), which provides good cruise speed with reasonable fuel efficiency. At higher power settings (75%), consumption increases to 10.5-11.6 GPH.
Fuel Cost Per Hour (at various Avgas prices):
- At $5.00/gallon: $50-$58/hour (10-11.6 GPH)
- At $6.00/gallon: $60-$70/hour (10-11.6 GPH)
- At $7.00/gallon: $70-$81/hour (10-11.6 GPH)
Fuel typically represents 55-65% of the Arrow's hourly variable operating costs. Careful power management significantly impacts fuel efficiency and hourly operating costs.
Engine Overhaul: Planning for Major Expense
The Lycoming IO-360 engine in the Arrow has a solid reputation for reliability and reasonable overhaul costs compared to higher-performance engines.
Overhaul Specifications:
TBO (Time Between Overhaul) is 2,000 hours, translating to approximately 12-20 years at typical recreational flying rates (100-150 hours annually). Complete overhaul costs range from $23,000-$38,000 depending on shop experience and repair scope.
Overhaul Cost Breakdown:
- Budget/Field Overhaul: $15,000-$25,000 (less experienced shops, basic reconditioning)
- Standard Shop Overhaul: $25,000-$35,000 (experienced shops, most common)
- Premium Overhaul: $35,000-$45,000 (factory or premium shops with all new components)
- Complete Installation Project: $60,000-$70,000 (includes removal, reinstallation, accessory overhauls, hoses, baffles)
Hourly Engine Reserve: Budget $12.50-$17.50 per flight hour ($25,000 ÷ 2,000 hours = $12.50/hour minimum). At 100 annual hours, this represents $1,250-$1,750 per year in engine reserve.
Retractable Gear: The Key Complexity Factor
Retractable landing gear is the defining feature of the Piper Arrow, adding capability but also maintenance complexity and operating cost.
Complex Aircraft Endorsement Requirement:
Unlike multi-engine aircraft, the Arrow doesn't require a multi-engine rating. Instead, it requires a Complex Aircraft Endorsement, which certifies the pilot is proficient with:
- Retractable landing gear operation and emergency procedures
- Flap systems and deployment
- Constant-speed (controllable-pitch) propeller operation
Endorsement Training: Typically requires 5-10 hours of dual instruction and costs $1,500-$3,000 depending on instructor rates. No FAA checkride is required—only a one-time logbook endorsement from an authorized instructor. This training is often less expensive than initial commercial certification.
Retractable Gear Maintenance:
Annual inspection includes mandatory retractable gear swing testing, adding approximately $1,000 per year to inspection costs. This testing verifies proper gear extension/retraction, warning lights, and emergency systems. Specialized mechanics familiar with gear systems charge premium rates for any repairs.
Gear-Up Landing Risk: Accidents caused by pilot-induced gear-up landings are not uncommon with retractable gear aircraft. Insurance claims from such incidents can be substantial. Always ensure proper before-landing checklist procedures, and consider modern gear-up warning systems as valuable safety upgrades.
Insurance: Higher Costs for Retractable Gear
Insurance for the Piper Arrow reflects the aircraft's complexity and retractable gear configuration.
Annual Insurance Premiums:
- PA-28R-180: $1,678/year (PlanePhD data)
- PA-28R-201 Arrow III: $1,798-$3,500/year depending on pilot experience and hull value
- Typical Mid-Range: $2,200-$3,500/year for a $100,000 hull value
Retractable Gear Premium: Insurance for retractable gear aircraft costs approximately 30% more than comparable fixed-gear aircraft. This premium reflects higher accident rates on gear-related incidents and the complexity of maintaining these systems.
Qualification Requirements: Many insurers require minimum 200 total hours before insuring retractable gear aircraft, and some require evidence of complex aircraft training and endorsement. Pilots with Instrument ratings typically receive better rates than VFR-only pilots.
Maintenance and Annual Inspection
Annual Inspection Costs:
Base annual inspection for a Piper Arrow runs $800-$1,500, with most shops charging $1,140-$1,400. The gear swing test required by FAA adds approximately $1,000 to inspection costs. Total annual inspection bill typically runs $1,500-$2,500 when minor repairs and parts are included.
Hourly Maintenance Reserve:
Hourly maintenance reserves should be budgeted at $17-$21 per flight hour for all maintenance costs excluding engine reserve. This accounts for propeller overhauls, gear system maintenance, hydraulic servicing, and general mechanical repairs.
Propeller Maintenance:
Most Arrows have constant-speed (controllable-pitch) propellers requiring periodic overhaul. Propeller overhauls cost $3,000-$4,829 depending on extent of repair needed. McCauley propellers (common on Arrows) have a 2,000-hour TBO. Budget approximately $1.50-$2.00 per flight hour for propeller reserves.
Why the Arrow is Easy to Maintain: Despite retractable gear, Arrows are considered the "easiest to maintain of retractable gear aircraft" due to simple systems, excellent parts availability, and numerous experienced mechanics. Many 40+ year old Arrows remain in excellent flying condition.
Storage and Facility Costs
Tie-Down Storage: $50-$150/month ($600-$1,800/year), typical $1,800/year
Hangar Storage: $300-$450/month ($3,600-$5,400/year), typical $3,600-$4,200/year
Most Arrow owners use outdoor tie-down to keep costs manageable, though hangar protection preserves aircraft value better over long-term ownership.
Total Cost of Ownership: Piper Arrow
Annual Scenario: 115 Hours Flying/Year (PA-28R-201 Arrow III)
| Expense Category | Annual Cost | Per Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel (11 GPH @ $36/gal) | $4,554 | $39.60 |
| Oil | $379 | $3.30 |
| Engine Reserve | $1,221 | $10.63 |
| Maintenance Reserve | $2,415 | $21.00 |
| Annual Inspection (incl. gear swing) | $2,000 | $17.39 |
| Insurance | $2,500 | $21.74 |
| Tie-Down | $1,800 | $15.65 |
| Subscriptions & Misc | $600 | $5.22 |
| TOTAL | $15,469 | $134.52 |
Key Observation: The Piper Arrow's 30% insurance premium compared to fixed-gear aircraft significantly impacts total ownership costs. Careful pilot qualification and training can help maintain insurance rates at the lower end of the range.
Financing a Piper Arrow
Financing Example:
A $100,000 Piper Arrow financed at 7% over 12 years with 20% down ($20,000) results in monthly payments of approximately $714 ($8,568 annually). Adding this to the $15,469 operating costs brings total annual cost to $24,037, or approximately $209/hour at 115 annual hours.
The moderate purchase price makes Arrow financing accessible for middle-income buyers, with monthly payments typically running $500-$900 depending on down payment and loan terms.
Performance Advantage: Retractable Gear Benefits
The complexity of retractable gear is justified by significant performance improvements:
- Cruise Speed: 140+ knots (retractable gear) vs. 120 knots (comparable fixed gear) = roughly 20 knot speed increase
- Better Climb Performance: Reduced drag enables superior climb rates, especially useful at high-density altitude airports
- Capability for Performance Flying: Constant-speed propeller allows optimized climb and cruise performance
- Training Value: Complex aircraft endorsement is valuable credential for career pilots and is required for some commercial operations
Why Own a Piper Arrow?
The Arrow appeals to pilots who want more performance than fixed-gear trainers but don't need the expense of high-performance complex retractables:
- Affordable Complex Training: Lower purchase price than Cirrus or Piper Saratoga
- Solid Reliability: Lycoming IO-360 is proven durable with excellent parts availability
- Easy to Maintain: Considered the simplest retractable gear aircraft to keep in good condition
- Excellent Resale Value: Strong trainer market demand maintains value
- Performance vs. Cost Balance: Good speed (140+ knots) for reasonable operating costs
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a used Piper Arrow cost to purchase?
Piper Arrow prices vary by model and year. PA-28R-180 models cost $70,000-$100,000, while PA-28R-200 and PA-28R-201 models range $89,000-$169,000 (1970s-1990s production). More recent models from the 2000s command $120,000-$140,000+. Typical mid-range Arrow averages $100,000-$120,000.
How much fuel does a Piper Arrow burn per hour?
The Piper PA-28R-200 burns approximately 10-11.6 gallons per hour depending on power setting. PA-28R-180 models burn roughly 10 GPH. At 65% power (most economical cruise), consumption is 9-10 GPH. At $6-7 per gallon, fuel costs range from $54-$81 per flight hour.
What is the cost of a Piper Arrow engine overhaul?
The Lycoming IO-360 engine in most Arrows has a 2,000-hour TBO and overhaul costs $23,000-$38,000. Budget options run $15,000-$25,000, while complete projects with installation typically cost $60,000-$70,000. Engine reserves should be budgeted at $12.50-$17.50 per flight hour.
Is a Piper Arrow more expensive to insure than fixed-gear aircraft?
Yes. Retractable gear aircraft like the Arrow typically cost 30% more to insure than comparable fixed-gear aircraft. Arrow insurance generally runs $1,678-$3,500 annually depending on pilot experience, hull value, and aircraft condition. Complex aircraft endorsement requirements also slightly increase training and qualification costs.
What endorsement is required to fly a Piper Arrow?
The Piper Arrow requires a Complex Aircraft Endorsement (not a multi-engine rating—it's a single-engine aircraft). This endorsement certifies proficiency with retractable gear, flaps, and controllable-pitch propeller. Training typically requires 5-10 hours and costs $1,500-$3,000. No FAA checkride is required.
What are annual maintenance costs for a Piper Arrow?
Annual inspection costs $800-$1,500, with retractable gear swing tests adding approximately $1,000 annually. Total annual maintenance averages $2,400-$3,700 including inspections. Variable hourly maintenance reserve should be budgeted at $17-$21 per flight hour for Arrow models.
How does retractable gear affect Piper Arrow maintenance?
Retractable gear requires annual gear swing testing, specialized mechanics knowledgeable in gear systems, and potential repairs if gear-related incidents occur. Gear system maintenance adds approximately $1,000 annually to inspection costs. The Arrow is considered the "easiest to maintain of retractable gear aircraft."
What is the total annual cost to own a Piper Arrow?
Annual ownership costs at 115 hours/year without financing total $19,788 for a PA-28R-201 Arrow III, or approximately $171/hour. This includes fuel, oil, engine reserve, maintenance, insurance, and storage. With financing on a $100,000 purchase (20% down, 12-year loan at 7%), total annual cost rises to approximately $29,400.
Ready to Own a Piper Arrow?
The Piper Arrow offers an excellent balance of performance, training value, and affordability. With robust maintenance support, excellent parts availability, and proven reliability, it's an ideal aircraft for pilots seeking complex single-engine operation without the premium costs of higher-performance retractables.
Use our affordability calculator to evaluate Arrow financing options, explore our beginner guides for detailed aircraft comparisons, or contact us to discuss Piper Arrow ownership opportunities.
Sources and Citations
1. Controller.com & Trade-A-Plane - Piper Arrow Aircraft Listings
Real-time used aircraft market data and current asking prices (2024-2025).
2. PlanePhD - Piper PA-28R Arrow Specifications & Operating Costs
Aircraft valuation, performance data, and detailed hourly cost calculations.
3. Piper Owner Society - Technical Resources and Maintenance Data
Airworthiness Directives, maintenance guidance, and owner community experiences.
4. Aircraft Cost Calculator - Operating Cost Analysis
Detailed hourly operating cost models and depreciation estimates.
5. Zephyr Engines & Overhaul Bids - Engine Overhaul Pricing
Engine overhaul cost data and specifications for Lycoming IO-360 engines.
6. AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association)
https://www.aopa.org
Complex aircraft training requirements, retractable gear guidelines, insurance resources.
7. Pilots of America Forums - Real-World Owner Experiences
Maintenance costs, engine experiences, retractable gear troubleshooting from active Arrow owners.
8. General Aviation News - Retractable Gear Aircraft Analysis
Comparative analysis of retractable gear aircraft maintenance and operating costs.
9. NextGen Flight Academy - Complex Endorsement Training Information
Complex aircraft endorsement requirements, training scope, and pilot qualifications.
10. BWI Fly Insurance - Arrow Insurance Cost Data
Annual insurance premium ranges for Piper Arrow by pilot experience and hull value.
Note on Pricing and Data: This article reflects market conditions and pricing as of October 2025. Aircraft values, fuel prices, insurance rates, and maintenance costs fluctuate based on market conditions and regulatory changes. The figures presented represent typical cases and should be verified with current quotes from aircraft brokers, insurance agents, and maintenance facilities before making purchase decisions. Retractable gear maintenance costs can vary significantly based on regional mechanic expertise and parts availability.