With its twin engines and roomy cabin, the classic Piper PA-31 Navajo has long been popular on the used aircraft market. As an aviation enthusiast, I decided to research the costs of purchasing and operating this vintage twin.
In this article, I’ll share details on the Navajo’s price, operating expenses, maintenance needs and financing options. Whether you dream of owning one or just appreciate classic planes, read on!
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Why Pilots Love the Piper PA-31 Navajo
Debuting in 1967, the PA-31 Navajo appealed to pilots thanks to strengths like:
- Twin 300 HP Lycoming TIO-540 engines provide redundancy and solid performance.
- Large cabin comfortably seats 7 people with club seating.
- Excellent payload capacity of over 1,600 pounds.
- Proven airframe and systems backed by Piper’s engineering expertise.
- Strong parts availability support even decades after production ceased.
For pilots seeking a roomy piston twin with charming retro style, the Navajo remains an attractive choice today. Now let’s explore the ownership costs.
What’s the Starting Price for a PA-31 Navajo?
Since the Navajo ended production in 1984, purchasing used is the only option. Expect to spend $85,000 – $637,000 for a Navajo built between 1969 and 1984 in nice condition. Models needing work can sometimes be found for under $50,000.
Key factors impacting price include overall condition, remaining engine times, avionics upgrades, paint and interior quality. As with any used plane purchase, careful pre-buy inspection is essential.
So while not inexpensive, a PA-31 can still be attained for a fraction of comparable new twins. Their utility ensures strong continuing demand.
What Are the Annual Fixed Costs on a Piper Navajo?
Expect around $10,505 in annual fixed operating expenses for your Navajo including:
Hangar Costs
Figure $850 per year for indoor hangar storage for the low-wing Navajo and its nearly 40-foot wingspan.
Insurance
For a 1960s-70s vintage twin, allow around $4,850 annually for decent liability and hull coverage.
Annual Inspection
This involved inspection will generally cost around $3,050 each year given the Navajo’s complexity.
Engine Overhaul Savings
It’s smart to save around $1,150 yearly towards future engine overhauls. This major cost must be planned for.
Miscellaneous Costs
Minor fixed costs like subscriptions and tiedown fees could total around $605 per year.
So keep around $10,505 in your annual budget for fixed Navajo operating expenses.
Variable Operating Costs for the Piper Navajo
When flown, the PA-31 incurs variable expenses that for 100 annual hours will total approximately $32,336.
Fuel Costs
Each engine burns around 19.2 GPH. At $5.40 per gallon for 100LL avgas, figure on $207 per hour for fuel.
Oil Costs
Oil consumption is low, so allow around $6 per flight hour.
Engine Reserves
It’s wise to keep saving for engine overhauls at around $35 per hour flown.
Maintenance
Unscheduled maintenance may cost around $45 per hour, or $4,500 annually at 100 hours.
Miscellaneous Costs
Figure on $30 per flight hour for landing fees, tiedown costs and pilot supplies.
Variable costs depend directly on flying time. For 100 hours annually, budget around $32,336.
Total Navajo Operating Cost Per Hour
When fixed and variable costs are combined and divided by 100 flight hours, the total cost per hour is approximately $428. Here’s the breakdown:
- Fuel Costs: $207/hr
- Oil Costs: $6/hr
- Engine Reserves: $35/hr
- Unscheduled Maintenance: $45/hr
- Misc Variable Costs: $30/hr
- Fixed Costs (Annualized): $105/hr
So while not inexpensive to operate, the Navajo provides twin-engine utility and roominess for lower acquisition cost.
How Do You Pay for a PA-31 Purchase?
Very few buyers can purchase a Navajo in cash. But creative financing makes ownership possible including:
Aircraft Loans
Banks may finance the purchase, typically with 20% or more down payment. Interest rates are higher than other loans. Compare multiple aviation lenders.
Leasing
Leasing through a specialty finance company allows you to operate without purchasing outright. At lease-end you can optionally buy.
Partnerships
Teaming with partners to acquire and share costs makes the Navajo more accessible.
Business Ownership
There may be tax advantages to owning the aircraft through a business. Consult an aviation tax expert.
For pilots aspiring to own a classic twin, creative financing strategies make the PA-31 an achievable goal.
Is Buying a Piper Navajo Worth the Cost?
There’s no avoiding the fact that acquiring and operating a twin like the PA-31 requires serious budgeting and financial commitment. Insurance, maintenance, engine overhauls and other expenses are far higher than a single.
However, for pilots who need a roomy piston twin capable of heavy lifting with two engines for peace of mind, the operating costs can be justified.
The Navajo provides great utility, proven reliability, and pleasing retro aesthetics for those who appreciate classics. With prudent planning, financing and budgeting, ownership is very attainable.
Whether you’re able to buy one soon or admiring from afar for now, I hope this overview of ownership costs has provided helpful guidance. The PA-31 remains a beloved classic for good reason!
