Pipistrel Panthera

Single Piston

The Pipistrel Panthera is a sleek four-seat composite aircraft from Slovenia that represents a modern take on the high-performance touring single. Developed by Pipistrel, best known for pioneering electric and ultralight aircraft, the Panthera entered certification in the 2010s with a focus on efficiency, speed, and advanced aerodynamics. Its all-composite construction, retractable tricycle gear, and low-drag fuselage allow it to cruise at around 170 knots on a 200-horsepower Lycoming engine, making it one of the fastest piston singles in its class while burning significantly less fuel than legacy designs. What sets the Panthera apart is its blend of European design philosophy with FAA certification ambitions. The aircraft features a spacious cabin with side-stick controls, a large canopy for exceptional visibility, and a parachute recovery system as standard equipment. Its wing design incorporates advanced laminar-flow profiles, and the entire airframe is optimized for cross-country efficiency rather than raw speed alone. With a useful load exceeding 1,000 pounds and a range of over 1,000 nautical miles, the Panthera competes directly with Cirrus and Diamond while offering a distinctly different aesthetic and handling character. Production has been limited, with most examples operating in Europe under national certifications, though FAA certification efforts have progressed slowly. The type appeals to owner-pilots seeking a modern, efficient tourer with performance that rivals much larger twins in terms of speed and comfort. SkyMeter has tracked 15 flights across 8 airframes and 3 operators, with STRAUB STEPHEN J the largest observed operator.