Single Engine • Piper • PA-20 Pacer, PA-20S Super Pacer, PA-22 Tri-Pacer (tricycle gear variant)
| Manufacturer | Piper |
| Model | PA-20 Pacer |
| Category | Single Engine |
| Variants | PA-20 Pacer, PA-20S Super Pacer, PA-22 Tri-Pacer (tricycle gear variant) |
| Production Years | 1949 – 1957 |
| Seating | 4 seats |
| Typical TTAF | 4,200 hours |
| Markets | United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand |
| Price Range | $45K – $120K |
The Piper PA-20 Pacer is a high-wing, single-engine, tailwheel aircraft that represents a significant evolution in Piper's design philosophy during the post-World War II general aviation boom. Introduced as an improved successor to the earlier PA-16 Clipper, the Pacer featured enhanced performance characteristics, improved visibility, and greater load-carrying capacity. The aircraft is characterized by its distinctive side-by-side seating arrangement and excellent slow-flight handling characteristics, making it popular for bush flying, backcountry operations, and personal transportation. Powered by a Lycoming O-320 or O-390 engine, the Pacer delivers reliable performance in demanding environments. The aircraft found particular favor among bush pilots and operators in remote regions due to its robust construction, short-field capability, and ability to operate from unprepared surfaces. Today, well-maintained examples remain valued by vintage aircraft enthusiasts, bush operators, and recreational pilots who appreciate its honest engineering and proven reliability. The PA-20 represents a golden era of American general aviation design, combining simplicity with effective utility.
Max Speed: 130 mph
Cruise Speed: 115 mph
Range: 350 nautical miles
Service Ceiling: 16,500 feet
Engine: Lycoming O-320-A2A or O-390-A (150-180 hp)
Max Takeoff Weight: 2,150 lbs
Empty Weight: 1,300 lbs
Fuel Capacity: 36 gallons
Wing Span: 29 feet 4 inches