In the vast expanse of general aviation, certain aircraft carve out a special place in the hearts of pilots and enthusiasts alike. Among these, the Piper Turbo Lance II stands as a testament to practical design, robust performance, and enduring utility. Introduced in the late 1970s, this turbocharged variant of the PA-32R Lance series quickly distinguished itself, offering a compelling blend of speed, payload, and comfort that continues to appeal to aviators today.

A Heritage of Utility: The PA-32 Lineage

The Piper Lance II, and its turbocharged sibling, emerged from Piper’s highly successful PA-32 Cherokee Six line. The Cherokee Six was renowned for its cavernous cabin and impressive useful load, essentially functioning as a flying station wagon. The Lance series took this utility a step further by incorporating retractable landing gear, transforming the robust hauler into a high-performance retractable. This design evolution aimed to offer increased speed and efficiency without sacrificing the generous carrying capacity that made the Cherokee Six so popular.

The Turbocharged Advantage: Performance Elevated

The defining characteristic of the Turbo Lance II (PA-32RT-300T) is, as its name suggests, its turbocharged engine. Powered by a 300-horsepower Lycoming TIO-540-S1AD engine, this aircraft was designed to excel at higher altitudes where non-turbocharged engines begin to lose power. This capability translates into several key advantages for pilots:

• Higher Cruise Speeds: The ability to maintain manifold pressure at altitude allows the Turbo Lance II to achieve impressive cruise speeds, often exceeding 200 mph, making cross-country flights more efficient.
• Improved High-Altitude Performance: With a service ceiling of 20,000 feet, the Turbo Lance II can climb above adverse weather and take advantage of favorable winds, offering a smoother and often faster ride.
• Enhanced Takeoff and Climb Performance: The turbocharged engine provides a significant boost in power, particularly from high-density altitude airports, ensuring robust takeoff and climb performance even in challenging conditions.

The T-Tail: A Design Evolution

A notable design change introduced with the 1978 Lance II and Turbo Lance II models was the adoption of the T-tail configuration. This distinctive tail design, where the horizontal stabilizer is mounted atop the vertical stabilizer, was intended to offer several aerodynamic benefits. Proponents suggested it improved stability by moving the horizontal stabilizer out of the propeller wash and wing downwash, leading to reduced pitch changes with power and flap adjustments. It also contributed to a quieter cabin by moving the tail surfaces further from the engine and propeller noise source. While the T-tail has its unique handling characteristics, particularly during landing, it remains a hallmark of this generation of Lance aircraft.

Pilot Impressions and Operational Considerations

Pilots often describe the Turbo Lance II as a stable and comfortable aircraft, well-suited for family travel or business trips. Its spacious cabin, typically configured for six or seven occupants, allows for ample legroom and baggage. The club seating arrangement found in many models further enhances passenger comfort on longer journeys. The useful load, often around 1,300 to 1,400 pounds, means that carrying a full complement of passengers and luggage is often achievable, a significant advantage over many contemporary aircraft.

However, like any complex aircraft, the Turbo Lance II requires a pilot proficient in managing its systems, particularly the turbocharged engine and retractable gear. The T-tail, while offering stability in cruise, can require a slightly different approach during landing, with some pilots noting a tendency for the nose to drop more quickly if airspeed is allowed to decay too much on touchdown. Despite these nuances, the Turbo Lance II is widely regarded as a reliable and capable aircraft when operated within its parameters.

Modern Relevance and Enduring Value

Decades after its introduction, the Piper Turbo Lance II continues to be a popular choice in the used aircraft market. Its combination of speed, range, payload, and relatively affordable acquisition cost makes it an attractive option for pilots seeking a high-performance single-engine aircraft. Many existing airframes have been meticulously maintained and upgraded with modern avionics, further enhancing their utility and safety in today’s airspace. From advanced GPS navigators to updated engine monitoring systems, these upgrades ensure that a well-cared-for Turbo Lance II can still serve as a highly capable personal or business transport.

Conclusion

The Piper Turbo Lance II is more than just an airplane; it’s a workhorse that embodies a golden era of general aviation design. Its robust construction, powerful turbocharged engine, and spacious cabin have cemented its place as a versatile and proven aircraft. For those who appreciate a blend of performance and practicality, the Turbo Lance II remains a compelling choice, offering an enduring legacy in the skies.

·  ·  ·  ·