Piper PA-31-350 Chieftain

General Product Description

Our PlaneArts Piper PA-31-350 Chieftain model exhibits unique, unrivaled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual plane. It comes as standard with a robust, durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished metal supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 9-10 weeks from placement of order.

The Piper PA-31-350 Chieftain model is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. We can, however, if required produce the same model in Solid Cast Resin so just click and contact us us for further information. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model airplanes match the precise blueprint details of the original aircraft. The paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original aircraft. This stylish top-quality desktop replica model will surely enthrall anyone who receives this as a gift and for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for any aviation enthusiast and avid aircraft collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual aircraft.

If you require we can also make the Piper PA-31-350 Chieftain model in any other airline, private livery or colour scheme you require and if necessary in a different size or scale. Just click here to contact us with a description or photographs of what you require, and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customization by return email. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military jet, warplane jets, propeller warplanes, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce model airships, blimp, dirigible, blimps, boat and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Again, by clicking here to contact us just let us know exactly what you need.

Piper PA-31-350 Chieftain: A Versatile Twin-Engine Workhorse

The Piper PA-31-350 Chieftain is a popular and enduring light twin-engine aircraft that has been widely used in general aviation, commuter air services, and corporate transport since its introduction in the late 1970s. Known for its reliability, ease of operation, and flexible performance, the Chieftain carved out a niche as a rugged and cost-effective solution for short-haul passenger and cargo flights.

Development and Design

The Piper PA-31 series originated from the need for a larger, more powerful version of Piper’s earlier twin-engine aircraft. The PA-31-350 Chieftain, introduced in 1976, featured several improvements over its predecessors, including more powerful engines and increased capacity.

Key design and performance features of the PA-31-350 Chieftain include:

• Engines: Two Lycoming TIO-540-A2C engines, each producing 350 horsepower

• Passenger capacity: Typically configured for 6 to 8 passengers

• Maximum cruise speed: Approximately 200 knots (370 km/h)

• Range: Around 700 nautical miles (1,300 kilometers), depending on load and conditions

• Cabin: Pressurized variants were not part of the Chieftain line, but the cabin was spacious with large windows and flexible seating arrangements

The aircraft’s rugged construction, combined with good short-field performance, made it suitable for operations from smaller airports and airstrips, including unimproved surfaces.

Operational Roles

The PA-31-350 Chieftain became a favorite for a variety of roles, including:

• Regional commuter flights: Many small airlines and air charter operators used the Chieftain on short regional routes where larger aircraft were not economical.

• Corporate transport: The aircraft’s cabin comfort and speed made it a practical choice for business travel.

• Cargo operations: With its rear clamshell doors and relatively large cabin, the Chieftain could be easily adapted for light cargo hauling.

• Air ambulance and medical evacuation: Some operators outfitted the Chieftain for medical missions, benefiting from its reliable twin-engine safety and cabin accessibility.

Performance and Handling

The PA-31-350 Chieftain offered solid performance for its class. Its turbocharged engines provided good power at higher altitudes, improving safety margins and performance in mountainous or hot environments. The aircraft’s handling was generally well regarded by pilots, with responsive controls and stable flight characteristics.

Maintenance was considered straightforward, contributing to lower operating costs. The availability of parts and Piper’s extensive support network helped maintain the Chieftain’s popularity over many decades.

Legacy and Modern Use

While the PA-31-350 Chieftain’s production ended in the mid-1980s, many examples remain in active service worldwide. They continue to be used by regional carriers, charter operators, and private owners, particularly in areas where short-haul, low-cost operations are essential.

The aircraft’s versatility, combined with its proven reliability, has ensured a lasting legacy in the world of light twins. For operators needing a cost-effective, rugged aircraft capable of carrying passengers or cargo into smaller airports, the Piper PA-31-350 Chieftain remains a respected and capable choice.

Conclusion

The Piper PA-31-350 Chieftain stands out as a workhorse in the light twin-engine aircraft category. Its blend of power, capacity, and operational flexibility has allowed it to serve a broad range of roles for over four decades. Whether flying short commuter routes, transporting executives, or hauling cargo, the Chieftain’s reputation for dependability and performance has secured its place in aviation history as a trusted and versatile aircraft.