Let's take a flight back in time and revisit the Piper Cherokee 235, a truly legendary aircraft that has left a significant imprint on aviation history.
The Piper Cherokee 235, crafted by the renowned Piper Aircraft, is a delightful masterpiece that fuses simplicity and robustness. Launched in 1964, it was originally developed as a personal aviation and flight training aircraft. But with its compelling features and reliable performance, the Piper Cherokee 235 has become a much-beloved choice among pilots around the world.
HISTORY
The Piper Cherokee 235, introduced in 1964, was a part of the wider Piper Cherokee family, a series of light aircraft designed for personal and flight training purposes. The “235” in the model's name denotes the engine's horsepower, a significant step up from the earlier models. This aircraft solidified Piper's status as a leading innovator in the aviation industry and remains a preferred choice for many pilots to this day.
DESIGN
The Piper Cherokee 235 is an elegant embodiment of strength and stability. Its low-wing monoplane design affords excellent stability and control. The aircraft's overall length is 23.3 ft, with a wingspan of 30 ft, giving it a balanced and manageable frame. Weighing in at a maximum of 2,900 lbs, it can comfortably seat up to four passengers in addition to the pilot, making it an ideal choice for small group travel.
PERFORMANCE
When it comes to performance, the Cherokee 235 is a powerhouse. Equipped with a Lycoming O-540 engine, it can achieve a top speed of 174 mph. With a range of 845 miles, this aircraft can confidently undertake longer flights. The aircraft can ascend to a service ceiling of 14,300 feet and offers an impressive fuel efficiency, making it a top contender in its class.
TECHNOLOGY
The Piper Cherokee 235, though considered a classic, is not without innovative features. Its avionics package typically includes basic instrumentation, but there's scope for modern upgrades, such as GPS and advanced navigation systems. The robust Lycoming engine is known for its reliability and easy maintenance. Furthermore, its safety systems, including its stability-enhancing low-wing design and simple, reliable controls, have contributed to its ongoing popularity.
VARIANTS
There are several variants of the Piper Cherokee 235, each with unique features. The most notable are the Cherokee 235B Pathfinder and the Cherokee 235C Charger. The Charger offered a longer wingspan and larger fuel tanks, while the Pathfinder featured a third window on each side of the fuselage for better visibility.
OPERATORS
The Piper Cherokee 235, due to its versatility and dependability, has found a home with a variety of operators. From flight training schools to personal aircraft enthusiasts and small charter companies, this resilient model serves a wide range of purposes.
In conclusion, the Piper Cherokee 235 has carved a niche for itself in the world of aviation. Its compelling history, innovative design, reliable performance, and advanced technology make it an aircraft worth exploring for any aviation enthusiast.
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SPECIFICATIONS
| Specifications | Piper Cherokee 235 |
|---|---|
| Length | 23.3 ft |
| Wingspan | 30 ft |
| Weight | 2,900 lbs (max) |
| Seating Capacity | 4 passengers + 1 pilot |
| Engine | Lycoming O-540 |
| Top Speed | 174 mph |
| Range | 845 miles |
| Service Ceiling | 14,300 feet |
This article uses material from various web resources and Wikipedia article, released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
