In the world of general aviation, few aircraft command the blend of respect, admiration, and caution quite like the Piper Twin Comanche. Born from the sleek lines of the single-engine Comanche, this light twin-engine aircraft, designated the PA-30 and later the PA-39, carved out a unique niche for itself. It was, and remains, a machine that promises high performance and remarkable efficiency, a true cross-country thoroughbred that stands apart from its contemporaries.

A Thoroughbred's Lineage: From PA-30 to PA-39

The story of the Twin Comanche begins in the early 1960s. Piper Aircraft sought a replacement for the venerable, but slower, Apache. The solution was to take the already successful PA-24 Comanche airframe and fit it with two engines. The result was the original PA-30 Twin Comanche, a four-seat aircraft powered by a pair of 160-horsepower Lycoming IO-320 fuel-injected engines.

What immediately set the Twin Comanche apart was its speed and efficiency. With its clean, laminar-flow wing and streamlined tiger shark engine nacelles, the PA-30 could cruise at speeds up to 170 knots while sipping fuel at a rate that made many single-engine aircraft blush. This combination of performance and economy quickly made it a favorite among private owners and charter operators alike.

The model evolved through several iterations. The PA-30B introduced a six-seat configuration and an extra cabin window, though filling all six seats often meant a compromise on fuel load due to the 1,350-pound useful load. The Turbo PA-30B, equipped with optional RayJay turbochargers, pushed the aircraft's performance envelope even further, allowing cruise speeds of up to 190 knots in the flight levels.

The ultimate refinement came with the PA-39 Twin Comanche C/R. Introduced in 1969, the PA-39 featured counter-rotating propellers. This seemingly minor change was a major confidence booster for pilots, as it eliminated the critical engine, significantly simplifying engine-out procedures and enhancing safety. The PA-39 is widely regarded as the finest of the Twin Comanche line and remains highly sought after on the used market today.

Performance That Still Impresses

Even decades after the last airframe rolled off the Lock Haven production line—a run that was tragically cut short by a flood in 1972—the Twin Comanche’s performance figures are still impressive.

Pilots consistently report true airspeeds in the 165 to 170-knot range, often with a total fuel burn of just 13 to 16 gallons per hour. When equipped with the optional tip tanks, the aircraft boasts a massive fuel capacity of 120 gallons, giving it a range that allows for true long-distance, non-stop travel. For the pilot who values speed and efficiency, the Twin Comanche is a compelling proposition.

The Handling and the "Vmc" Reputation

No discussion of the Twin Comanche is complete without addressing its reputation, particularly concerning its handling characteristics during single-engine operations. In the 1960s and early 1970s, the aircraft was involved in a number of Vmc (Velocity Minimum Controllable) loss-of-control accidents, which gave it a tarnished image in some circles.

However, a deeper look reveals that the issue was less about the aircraft's design and more about the training standards of the era. The Twin Comanche was a popular multi-engine trainer, and a combination of optimistically marked Vmc speeds and poor training techniques—such as performing Vmc demonstrations at dangerously low altitudes—led to tragic outcomes.

The FAA eventually changed its training standards, requiring a separate rating for multi-engine instructors, and the accident rate dropped dramatically. Furthermore, the PA-39 model, with its counter-rotating props, completely eliminated the critical engine factor, making it a much more benign aircraft in an engine-out scenario. Modern safety reviews, including those by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Air Safety Institute, have concluded that the Twin Comanche is no more prone to Vmc roll-over spins than any comparable light twin.

Experienced Twin Comanche pilots describe the aircraft as honest and solid. They note a few quirks: a tendency to "float" on landing due to the efficient wing, requiring a firm, positive touchdown, and the need to hold the aircraft on the runway during takeoff until well above Vmc to avoid a premature, unsafe liftoff. With proper training and respect for its capabilities, the Twin Comanche is a rewarding and capable machine.

A Classic That Demands Respect

Today, the Piper Twin Comanche remains a fantastic value in the used aircraft market. It offers a combination of speed, range, and fuel economy that is difficult to match, even by modern designs. Its timeless good looks and comfortable cabin make it a superb personal or business transport.

However, like any classic aircraft, it demands respect and diligent maintenance. Prospective owners must be aware of the airworthiness directives (ADs) and the importance of a thorough pre-buy inspection. A well-maintained Twin Comanche, especially a PA-39, is a joy to fly and a testament to Piper's design ingenuity. It is a classic that continues to earn its wings, day after day, in the hands of pilots who appreciate its enduring legacy.

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