Piper Aircraft announced two new value priced additions to its trainer-class line, the Piper Pilot 100 and Pilot 100i. These new products enter the trainer segment at a competitive price point of $259,000 VFR equipped and offer the same rugged durability and functionality as its stablemate, the Archer TX.

The need for a new trainer aircraft at a price point that could support the growing demand for professionally trained pilots was identified following extensive research and the rapid expansion of trainer sales. To achieve optimal acquisition and operating costs and economics, Piper focused on proactive planning and collaboration with several key vendors. As a result, the Pilot 100 series features several new components like the Continental Prime IO-370-D3A engine, as well as Garmin G3X Touch Certified avionics in a standard two pilot interior configuration. The Pilot 100"i" adds an IFR capable upgrade package that includes the, Garmin G3X Touch, GFC500 autopilot, the new GNX 375 and is priced at $285,000 dollars Both aircraft will be available in limited quantities beginning in 2020.

"With the unprecedented demand for professional pilots, our team worked closely with several key suppliers to deliver an aggressively priced, proven trainer that offers the advanced systems and performance that flight schools and airline programs of all sizes desire," said Piper President and CEO, Simon Caldecott. "We are excited to add the Pilot 100 series to our training product line at a price point that provides optimal economics for all operators."

The new Piper Pilot 100 / 100i rounds off Piper's portfolio of training aircraft products. With five model series (Pilot 100, Archer TX, Archer DX, Arrow, and Seminole) the company offers the widest range of training aircraft of any aircraft manufacturer, and meets all the individual needs of its training operators and customers. The sales figures amply demonstrate how well Piper's training class of products are received by the industry: Since 2014, sales of the single engine Piper Archer have grown more than 93%. For 2018, sales of the robust single engine Archer grew by nearly 50% YOY, while twin engine Seminole deliveries rose 117%.

About the Piper Pilot 100 / 100i

The Piper Pilot 100/100i provides flight schools with professional training aircraft that offer a value proposition which translates into lower operating costs that can result in lower priced initial training courses. Standard instrumentation includes the Garmin G3X system, which offers all the advantages of a glass cockpit without the costs. The Pilot 100/100i is powered by the 180hp Continental Prime IO-370-D3A which offers 128 ktas / 237 km/h max cruise speed and 522 nm range with 45 minute reserve. The Pilot 100's interior is simple, yet functional and was specially crafted to withstand the of rigors flight training.