Used Aircraft Guide: Commander 112/114

It’s got style, comfort and plenty of space inside. Presuming you accept that speed isn’t everything, these unique airplanes can be a real value buy.

It’s always interesting to contemplate general aviation’s boom-and-bust cycles. While exceptions certainly abound, it seems every other decade since the 1930s has included introduction of new aircraft or new technologies that further advance the state of the art. The 1970s were an upswing, avocado-green vinyl upholstery and Continental’s Tiara engine notwithstanding. In addition to the iconic taper-wing Piper Cherokees, Cessna’s original Citation and Beech’s Model 200 Super King Air, the 70s also ushered in the Rockwell Commander 112/114 series of four-seat piston singles. For years, what was then called North American Rockwell had been trying to find the right mix of ramp appeal, performance and features to enter the general aviation market in a big way. Early attempts—the Lark and Darter, and efforts to revive the Meyers 200—didn’t work out as the company hoped.