Piper Aircraft, Inc. is preparing to certify the Lycoming IO-360-B4M fuel-injected engine on its popular Archer trainer, the Archer TX, which has become the perfect gateway aircraft for fledgling pilots around the world. In addition, the company is also offering a diesel option providing customers with a third engine option for the currently piston-powered aircraft.

"Offering three engine options provides the customer with unprecedented choice," said Piper's President and CEO Simon Caldecott. "We are excited that the first customer to receive the fuel injected Archer TX will be the University of North Dakota.

The new fuel injection and diesel options maintain the 180 HP power for the four-seat, single-engine trainer. The diesel Archer has already been delivered to customers where the technology and excellent fuel economy provide the right solution for flight schools. The advanced Garmin G1000 Avionics Suite is standard in all Piper aircraft preparing new pilots for the cockpit of the future.