Aircraft overview

The Piper PA-32 Cherokee Six is a fixed-gear, single-engine piston aircraft developed by Piper Aircraft as a larger, load-carrying member of the Cherokee family. Introduced in the mid-1960s and produced through the late 1970s in its Cherokee Six form, it was aimed at private owners, charter operators, clubs, and utility users needing more seats and baggage capacity than a typical four-seat PA-28. Its importance in the used market comes from its simple airframe, large cabin, and reputation as a practical family and business transport rather than a high-speed cross-country aircraft.

Performance & specifications

The main Cherokee Six versions are the PA-32-260 and PA-32-300. The 260 is powered by a 260 hp Lycoming O-540, while the 300 uses a 300 hp fuel-injected Lycoming IO-540. Typical cruise speeds are roughly in the 125-140 knot range depending on engine, loading, rigging, and equipment. Many aircraft offer practical ranges around 700 nautical miles when sensibly planned, with fuel and payload trade-offs. Useful load is one of the model’s defining strengths, commonly around 1,400-1,600 lb in many examples. Published service ceilings vary by version, with the PA-32-300 generally listed above 15,000 feet.

Cabin & avionics

The Piper PA-32 Cherokee Six typically seats six, with some layouts configured for seven using a narrower aft seating arrangement. The cabin is appreciated for straightforward access, a broad fuselage for its class, a front baggage area, and large rear cargo doors that make loading passengers, luggage, or bulky items easier. Factory avionics were conventional analog panels, so equipment varies widely today. Buyers will commonly find upgraded Garmin or BendixKing radios, Garmin GNS or GTN navigators, ADS-B, engine monitors, digital attitude instruments such as Garmin G5 or GI 275 units, and occasionally modern autopilot upgrades. Garmin Perspective and factory G1000 suites are not original Cherokee Six equipment.

Buying & value

For used-aircraft buyers, the Piper PA-32 Cherokee Six sits between smaller four-seat singles and faster, more complex retractable models. Key inspection points include corrosion, fuel tanks and lines, landing gear attachment areas, engine condition, exhaust system, cabin floor and cargo-door structure, logbook continuity, and compliance with applicable airworthiness directives. The PA-32-300 usually commands more attention for its extra power, while the PA-32-260 may appeal where operating cost and acquisition price matter more. Common value drivers include engine time, paint and interior condition, avionics modernization, autopilot capability, and useful load. Current PlaneFox listing data shows an average asking price around EUR 155,000, with examples ranging approximately from EUR 97,000 to EUR 344,000 depending on condition and equipment.