Register

Piper Aztec

That’s a 1976 Piper PA-23-250 Aztec in the lead image. Wearing a modern Scheme Designers paint scheme, good Aztecs like this one sell for more than typical Bluebook prices.

Search the light twin market and inevitably you’ll come across Piper’s PA-23 series. But all PA-23 models certainly aren’t created equal and you won’t mistake an early Apache for a late-model Aztec—in looks or performance.

As far back as we can remember, the two airplanes generally serve different purposes. The Apache has long been used for initial twin-engine training and time building, while the Aztec works we’ll as a go-places people hauler. Neither model is a speed demon, but both can be maintenance intensive given their age and complex systems. As you’d expect, you’ll pay a premium for good ones with mods and major upgrades. 

Larry Anglisano

Editor in Chief Larry Anglisano has been a staple at Aviation Consumer since 1995. An active land, sea and glider pilot, Larry has over 30 years’ experience as an avionics repairman and flight test pilot. He’s the editorial director overseeing sister publications Aviation Safety magazine, IFR magazine and is a regular contributor to KITPLANES magazine with his Avionics Bootcamp column.