The story
The Tri-Pacer was Piper's bet that ordinary families would fly, and nearly 10,000 sold. Its stubby fuselage and tall nosewheel earned it the affectionate nickname 'the flying milk stool' — but it hauled four people on 150 horsepower and helped build postwar general aviation.
Its tricycle gear was a big selling point in the 1950s — most light planes were still tailwheels that were tricky to land.
Quick answers
How do you identify a PA-22 Tri-Pacer?
High wing with struts, fabric covering, short rounded fuselage, and a distinctly tall, stalky tricycle gear. Looks like it's standing on tiptoes at the ramp.
What does a PA-22 Tri-Pacer sound like?
Classic Lycoming four-cylinder drone, usually cruising unhurried.
How fast is the PA-22 Tri-Pacer?
Top speed is 123 kts.
How many passengers does the PA-22 Tri-Pacer carry?
Up to 3. A typical layout is 1 pilot + 3 passengers.
How far can the PA-22 Tri-Pacer fly?
Range is about 434 nmi.
How big is the PA-22 Tri-Pacer?
It is 20 ft 6 in long and 29 ft 3 in across the wings.
When did the PA-22 Tri-Pacer first fly?
Its first flight was in 1950.
How many PA-22 Tri-Pacers have been built?
9,490 built.
How rare is a PA-22 Tri-Pacer in Bogey?
COMMON. Everyday traffic. You will catch plenty of these, and every first catch still counts. Your first PA-22 Tri-Pacer catch is worth 25 points.
