Piper's early development: From tailwheel Pacer to tricycle Tri-Pacer

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By Sky Industry News

Dec 22, 2024

The PA-20 Pacer, developed by Piper Aircraft, was introduced in 1949 as an early model aimed at reducing costs. Over 1,100 units were sold between 1950 and 1954. The PA-22 Tri-Pacer followed, featuring a shift to tricycle landing gear that facilitated easier and safer flying. This model saw greater success, with over 9,400 units produced until 1964.

Piper Aircraft Company began as Taylor Brothers Aircraft Manufacturing Company in 1927. William Piper took control in the 1930s and reorganized it to produce low-cost aircraft like the E-2 Cub. The company continued developing new models using existing designs to remain competitive post-WWII.

The PA-20 Pacer derived from earlier models such as the PA-15, PA-16 Clipper, and PA-17 Vagabond. It retained a steel fuselage and high wings while offering increased fuel capacity and revised control elements. It included flaps and a control yoke instead of center sticks found in previous models.

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The specifications for the PA-20 include a height of 9 ft 6 in (2.9 m), wingspan of 32 ft 10 in (10 m), length of 27 ft 9 in (8.5 m), capacity for four people, and maximum take-off weight of 1,950 lb. Its performance features are a maximum speed of 121 knots (224 km/h), cruise speed of 109 knots (202 km/h), range of 470 nautical miles (870 km), and service ceiling of up to 15,000 feet (4,572 meters).

Several variants were produced with differences mainly in engine type:

PA-20 with a Lycoming O-290-D engine;

PA-20S offered optional float installation;

and other versions featured various engine power ratings.

The transition from tailwheel to tricycle landing gear marked a significant change with the introduction of the PA-22 Tri-Pacer model. This redesign maintained much of the original structure but provided improved ground handling and visibility.

Despite its initial popularity among pilots for flight training and private use, the PA-20 was eventually outshone by its successor due to these advancements in design.