Piper 12 Supercruiser
Piston • single engine • High Wing • Fixed gear
Range Visualization
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Default: 190 lbs (FAA standard)
Default: 30 lbs
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Fuel on board
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Range
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Mission Profile
91
KTAS
Cruise Speed
3
Occupants
520
nm
Max Range
572
lbs
Wet Payload
About the Piper 12 Supercruiser
Key Features for GA Buyers
The Piper PA-12 Super Cruiser occupies a unique niche in the vintage Piper lineup. Developed from the J-5 Cub Cruiser, it was one of the first post-WWII designs aimed at the personal touring market.
- Three-Seat Configuration: The PA-12 features a rare seating layout: the pilot sits alone in the front, while the rear seat is a wide bench designed for two passengers side-by-side. This makes it a “2+1” hauler, though the rear can be tight for two adults.
- Solo from the Front: Unlike the J-3 Cub, the PA-12 is flown solo from the front seat, offering superior visibility and a more natural flying experience.
- Cross-Country Capable: With a cruise speed of ~90-95 kts and a 38-gallon fuel capacity (often increased with STCs), the Super Cruiser has significantly better range and speed than the J-3 or PA-11. It famously proved its reliability when two PA-12s circled the globe in 1947.
- Bush Capability: While not as aggressive a STOL performer as the Super Cub (PA-18), the PA-12 is a capable backcountry platform. Many have been modified with larger engines (150hp+), flaps, and tundra tires to rival Super Cub performance.
Trade-offs
- Cabin Access: Entry and exit can be awkward, particularly for the pilot who must navigate past the front seat or door post.
- Rear Visibility: The pilot’s view is excellent, but rear passengers have a more obstructed forward view compared to side-by-side aircraft.
- Stock Performance: In its original 108hp configuration without flaps, it requires more runway than a Super Cub. It floats significantly on landing if approach speeds are not managed carefully.
Technical Specifications
Dimensions
- Wingspan
- 35.46 ft
- Length
- 22.83 ft
- Height
- 6.83 ft
Weights
- Max Takeoff Weight
- 1,750 lbs
- Max Landing Weight
- 1,750 lbs
- Useful Load
- 800 lbs
- Fuel Capacity
- 38 gal
Performance
- Cruise Speed
- 91 KTAS
- Range
- 520 NM
- Service Ceiling
- 12,600 ft
- Rate of Climb
- 600 fpm
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