Piper Warrior III

Here's some info about the Piper Warrior III that our batch is currently flying for our PPL and CPL Single Engine Stage. The aircraft is relatively new compared to the Diamond DA40D. APFT bought the aircraft somewhere in 2009. The difference between the new Warrior III and the old Warrior II is the cockpit layout. The Warrior III features new avionics including the Garmin GNS430 GPS. Unfortunately, the GPS database is outdated. Tak hairan pun.. LOL..

Well, other than that, it's almost the same as the Warrior II. Here's some technical data about it...

• Lycoming 320-D3G 160HP @ 2700RPM
• 50 US Gallon fuel tank (25 US Gallon/wing)
• 6 hours endurance
• Cruising speed - 95 knots
• 4 seater



Garmin GNS430 GPS

Piper Warrior III Cockpit

So far, all I can say is that the aircraft is very stable in turbulence compared to the DA40D. Some cadets complained that the DA40D is quite tricky to handle since constant adjustment is needed. Besides that, Piper has the advantage of simplicity compared to the DA40D. Since the Warrior III is a conventional training aircraft and doesn't rely heavily on electrical system, an alternator failure doesn't present any fatal hazard since it's engine will continue to run even when the battery is drained. The worst you can expect is electrical failure. The Diamond DA40D's engine on the other hand, will die out as soon as the battery is drained since it relies on the ECU. The design simplicity makes the Piper Warrior the most popular training aircraft.

Piper Warrior III Instruments

So, in the end, PIPER ROCKS! :D