Piper PA-23 Apache / Aztec
Piper Aircraft · United States · first flew 1952 · light aircraft
The Piper PA-23 family encompasses the Apache and Aztec light twin-engine aircraft, which became among the most popular multi-engine trainers and personal transports in the world.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Low-mounted, tapered |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × piston, wing-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 8.41 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Low-wing twin piston light aircraft family
- Oval cabin windows on early Apache; rectangular on Aztec
- Retractable tricycle undercarriage
A low-wing twin with a rounded fuselage cross-section; Apaches show oval side windows while Aztecs have a longer, more pointed nose and rectangular windows.
Specifications
- The Piper PA-23 Apache / Aztec has a length of 8.41 m (28 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 11.33 m (37 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 330 km/h (205 mph).
- Typical crew: 1-2 + up to 4 passengers.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
The original Twin-Stinson concept became the Apache after Piper acquired it; the refined Aztec appeared in 1959 with more power, a longer nose, and improved systems. Both variants were produced for decades and trained a generation of multi-engine pilots.
Variants
Apache variants (PA-23-150/160/235) were followed by the more powerful Aztec series (PA-23-250) through the Aztec F; turbocharged versions were also offered.
Where you'll see it
Widely operated worldwide by flight schools, private owners, and charter operators; many examples remain in active service.
Related aircraft
- Piper PA-23 Apache
- Piper L-21B Super Cub
- Piper PA-20 Pacer
- Piper PA-15 Vagabond
- Beecraft Honey Bee
- Brochet MB.60
- Canadair CT-133 Silver Star
- Caproni Trento F-5
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