 My Great Grandfather's 1959 Comanche 250  The actual airplane that was modified in 2012. These images are of the Piper Comanche 250 my Great Grandfather owned. |
The Piper Comanche 250 is a single-engine, low-wing aircraft manufactured by Piper
Aircraft Corporation. Here's a brief overview of its history: Development and Introduction: The Piper Comanche was developed as a high-performance aircraft to compete with other popular models of the time, such as the Beechcraft Bonanza and Cessna 210. The initial model, known as the PA-24 Comanche, was introduced in 1958. Design Features: The Comanche 250 featured a sleek and streamlined design with retractable landing gear and a constant-speed propeller. It was constructed using aluminum alloy, which made it relatively lightweight and strong. The aircraft had a four-seat configuration and was equipped with various avionics and navigation systems. Performance and Enhancements: The Comanche 250 was powered by a Lycoming O-540 engine, providing 250 horsepower, which contributed to its impressive performance. It had a cruising speed of around 175 knots and a range of approximately 1,000 nautical miles. Over the years, Piper made several improvements and introduced different variants, including models with increased engine power and additional features.  Production and Variants: The production of the Piper Comanche continued from the late 1950s to the early 1970s. During this period, Piper produced several variants of the aircraft. Some notable models include the Comanche 180, Comanche 250, Comanche 260, and Comanche 400, which had various engine options and performance characteristics. Legacy and Popularity: The Piper Comanche gained popularity among private pilots, aircraft owners, and flight schools due to its combination of performance, efficiency, and comfort. It was regarded as a capable cross-country aircraft and was well-regarded for its handling characteristics and advanced features for its time.  Discontinuation and Aftermarket Support: Piper eventually ceased production of the Comanche series in the early 1970s. However, the aircraft still remains in service today, and a thriving aftermarket community exists to support owners with spare parts, maintenance, and modifications. While the Piper Comanche 250's production run ended several decades ago, it remains a respected aircraft within the aviation community, appreciated for its sleek design, performance capabilities, and enduring appeal. |
