Piper PA-30 Turbo Twin Comanche

The Piper PA-30 Turbo Twin Comanche is the ultimate efficiency machine in the light twin category. By pairing a sleek, laminar-flow airframe with two fuel-injected 160 hp Lycoming engines, it achieves cruise speeds that rival much larger twins while burning a fraction of the fuel (roughly 15–17 GPH total). The Turbo models, typically featuring manual RayJay wastegates, allow the aircraft to maintain power up to 24,000 ft, making it a serious high-altitude cruiser.

Key Features for GA Buyers

• Unmatched Efficiency: Frequently cited as the only twin that makes financial sense compared to high-performance singles, offering a second engine for safety with a ‘nickel budget’ fuel burn.
• Long Endurance: When equipped with the iconic 15-gallon tip tanks (totaling 120 gallons), this aircraft has a range of over 1,100 nm, capable of crossing half a continent in one hop.
• Ramp Appeal: Its low-slung stance and pointed nose give it a timeless, sporty look that stands out among mid-century GA designs.

Trade-offs

• Complex Engine Management: Older Turbo models use manual wastegates, requiring the pilot to manage throttle and wastegate knobs simultaneously during climb to avoid over-boosting.
• Challenging Landings: Due to the laminar-flow wing and short main gear, it is a notorious ‘floater’ that can reward poor speed control with a punishing ‘thud’ on touchdown.
• Single-Engine Performance: Like many light twins of its era, single-engine climb is anemic (approx. 200-260 FPM). It requires a proficient pilot who respects its $V_{MC}$ and $V_{SSE}$ speeds.