Piper Pa-32r Lance/ Saratoga Sp

Single Piston· 983 globally registered

The Piper PA-32R represents one of general aviation's most successful six-seat single-engine designs, combining the cabin space of the fixed-gear Cherokee Six with retractable landing gear for improved cruise performance. Introduced in 1976 as the Lance and later refined as the Saratoga line, the PA-32R became the go-to aircraft for families, small charter operators, and business travelers who needed to carry serious loads without stepping up to a twin. Its 300-horsepower Lycoming engine and low-wing configuration deliver cruise speeds around 170 knots while maintaining docile handling characteristics that made it popular with step-up pilots transitioning from fixed-gear singles. The type's wide cabin (among the roomiest in its class) and large aft baggage door earned it a reputation as the "flying station wagon" of personal aviation. Piper produced the PA-32R family continuously until 2009, with thousands still active on the U.S. register today. The Saratoga's blend of payload capacity, club-seating comfort, and single-engine operating economics made it a staple of small-town air taxi services and a favorite among owner-pilots who valued utility over speed records. SkyMeter has tracked 1,468 flights across 538 airframes and 505 operators, with SOUTHERN AIRCRAFT CONSULTANCY INC TRUSTEE the largest observed operator.