Oshkosh, Wisc., July 26, 2016 – 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.
About the Archer TX – The Archer TX includes: two 10.4″ high resolution XGA (PFD/MFD) displays, an Aspen standby System (EFD-1000), an Attitude Heading Reference System (AHRS), a solid state Air Data Computer (ADC), solid state 3-axis Magnetometer, Dual IFR Enroute/Approach and WAAS Certified GPS systems. Also included is an Electronic Engine Indication System (EIS), Dual Nav/Comm (16 watt) radio, a GTX 33ES Transponder with Extended Squitter, Digital Audio Panel, Traffic Information Systems (TIS) and Terrain and Obstacle Mapping. The Archer TX, equipped with a 180 hp Lycoming engine, offers 128 ktas / 237 km/h cruise speed.
About the Archer DX – Powered by the Continental CD-155 diesel engine, the Archer DX cruises at a speed of 114 KTAS / 211 km/h (at 70% power) on only 5.8 gph / 22 kph of jet fuel. The CD-155 offers a TBR (time before replacement) of 2100 hours. The G1000 avionics come standard and provides a great mix of low workload and high technology. The special flight school interior, and the aircraft overall, is designed to stand up to the rigors of flight training. The Archer DX offers competitive operating economics with a proven airframe perfect for flight training organizations worldwide.
About Piper Aircraft – Piper Aircraft Inc., headquartered in Vero Beach, Fla., offers aviators throughout the world efficient and reliable single- and twin-engine aircraft. The single-engine M-Class series – the M600, M500, M350 and Matrix – offers businesses and individuals elegant performance and value. The Twin Class Seneca V and Seminole balance proven performance, efficiency, and simplicity in twin-engine aircraft. The Trainer Class Warrior, Archer TX, Archer DX, Arrow, Seminole and Seneca V aircraft form the most complete technically-advanced line of pilot training aircraft in the world. All Piper airplanes feature advanced Garmin avionics in the cockpit. Piper is a member of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association.