Piper PA-34 Seneca
Piston • twin engine • Low Wing • Retractable gear
Range Visualization
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Payload vs. Range
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Default: 190 lbs (FAA standard)
Default: 30 lbs
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Fuel on board
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Range
Available Range
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Mission Profile
200
KTAS
Cruise Speed
6
Occupants
828
nm
Max Range
605
lbs
Wet Payload
About the Piper PA-34 Seneca
The Piper PA-34 Seneca V (designated PA-34-220T) is a six-seat, twin-engine touring aircraft often cited as a step-up for pilots graduating from smaller trainers. It is the latest evolution of the Seneca line, featuring turbocharged Continental TSIO-360-RB engines and a re-designed cowling for improved aerodynamics compared to earlier models.
Key Features for GA Buyers
- Counter-Rotating Propellers: A signature safety feature of the Seneca line, the engines spin in opposite directions, eliminating the “critical engine” factor and significantly simplifying single-engine handling during emergencies.
- Cabin Comfort: The fuselage is derived from the Cherokee Six/Lance, offering one of the widest cabins in its class with club seating for rear passengers, making it a comfortable platform for family or business travel.
- High-Altitude Capability: With turbocharged engines and a service ceiling of 25,000 ft, the Seneca V is well-suited for mountain flying and clearing weather systems.
Trade-offs
- Useful Load: While capable of carrying six seats, the full-fuel useful load (often around 600 lbs) realistically limits the aircraft to 3 adults and bags for maximum range missions.
- Complexity & Maintenance: The turbocharged engines run hotter and require more disciplined management than naturally aspirated alternatives (like the Seminole), leading to higher potential maintenance costs.
- Handling: Pilots often describe the control forces as heavier than lighter twins like the Beechcraft Duchess or Piper Seminole.
Technical Specifications
Dimensions
- Wingspan
- 38.9 ft
- Length
- 28.6 ft
- Height
- 9.9 ft
Weights
- Max Takeoff Weight
- 4,750 lbs
- Max Landing Weight
- 4,513 lbs
- Useful Load
- 1,337 lbs
- Fuel Capacity
- 122 gal
Performance
- Cruise Speed
- 200 KTAS
- Range
- 828 NM
- Service Ceiling
- 25,000 ft
- Rate of Climb
- 1550 fpm
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