What is the purchase price for a used Piper Cherokee Six?

Used Piper Cherokee Six aircraft vary by model year: earlier models (1965-1980) cost $60,000-$150,000; mid-period variants (1980-2000) range $120,000-$250,000; modern examples (2000+) cost $180,000-$350,000. The Cherokee Six is more affordable than Cessna 206 but less expensive than newer Piper high-performance singles.

How much does a Cherokee Six cost to operate?

The Cherokee Six burns 13-16 GPH at cruise, with total operating costs of $140-$200/hour. Annual fixed costs (insurance, hangar, inspection) run $6,000-$8,000. For 100 annual hours, expect $20,000-$25,000 total annual cost. The Cherokee Six offers six-seat capacity at single-engine costs.

Is the Piper Cherokee Six good for families?

Yes. The Cherokee Six offers true six-seat comfort and useful load of 1,300+ lbs, making it excellent for family flying and charter operations. Cruise speed of 130+ knots is slower than some alternatives but economical. The spacious cabin and good useful load make it superior to smaller singles for family missions.

What makes the Piper Cherokee Six different from Cessna 206?

The Cherokee Six is lower-cost ($120K-$350K vs. Cessna's $180K-$400K), slightly slower (130 knots vs. 145+), and simpler mechanically. The Cessna offers better climb performance and single-engine handling. Both offer six-seat capacity and similar operating costs. The Cherokee Six suits budget-conscious operators; the Cessna suits performance-focused buyers.

Piper Cherokee Six Cost of Ownership

The affordable six-seat family aircraft. Expect to pay $120,000-$350,000 and operate at $140-$200 per hour.

Complete breakdown of purchase costs, fuel expenses, maintenance, insurance, and annual ownership budgets.

Piper Cherokee Six: Affordable Family Aircraft

The Piper Cherokee Six combines true six-seat capability with affordable acquisition and operating costs. Since introduction in 1965, the Cherokee Six has served families, charter operators, and flying clubs seeking practical transportation for 6 occupants plus baggage. The aircraft's spacious cabin, reliable Lycoming engines, and straightforward systems make it ideal for family flying and small commercial operations.

Why Pilots Choose the Piper Cherokee Six

The Cherokee Six appeals to families needing genuine six-seat capacity; charter operators seeking economical transport; and flight schools offering multi-passenger training. The spacious cabin provides comfortable seating for adults, and useful load exceeds 1,300 pounds. While slower than some alternatives (130 knots vs. 145+), the Cherokee Six's economy and capacity make it excellent value.

Purchase Price: What You'll Pay

1965-1980 Models: $60,000-$120,000 - Early variants, basic avionics, simple systems.
1980-2000 Models: $120,000-$200,000 - Mid-period improvements, better avionics availability.
2000+ Models: $200,000-$350,000 - Modern variants with glass cockpit options.

Financing & Insurance

Financing for $120K-$350K aircraft typically requires 20-25% down with 10-15 year terms at 5.5-8.0% interest. Insurance runs $1,500-$2,500/year depending on pilot experience and hull value.

Operating Costs

Fuel consumption: 13-16 GPH at cruise. At $6.00-$7.00/gal Avgas, fuel costs $78-$112/hour. Maintenance reserves average $15-$20/hour. Engine overhaul reserves: $12-$18/hour. Total variable costs: $110-$150/hour.

Annual Ownership Examples

100 hours/year: $6,500 fixed + $12,000 variable = $18,500 total ($185/hour)

200 hours/year: $6,500 fixed + $24,000 variable = $30,500 total ($153/hour)

Piper Cherokee Six vs. Alternatives

vs. Cessna 182: Cessna is faster (145+ knots) but more expensive. Both offer six-seat capacity.

vs. Cessna 206: Cessna 206 offers better climb and performance at higher cost ($250K-$500K).

Is Cherokee Six Ownership Worth It?

Yes, for families prioritizing six-seat capacity and economical operation. The Cherokee Six delivers true family transportation at moderate cost. For buyers choosing between four-seat and six-seat aircraft, the Cherokee Six offers reasonable upgrade path.

Sources and Citations

PlanePhD Aircraft Valuation Database - Piper Cherokee Six (2025)
Aircraft Cost Calculator - Operating Costs
AOPA Pilot Resource Center

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