Twin Engine • Piper • Cheyenne III, Cheyenne IIIA, Cheyenne IIIXL
| Manufacturer | Piper |
| Model | PA-42 Cheyenne III |
| Category | Twin Engine |
| Variants | Cheyenne III, Cheyenne IIIA, Cheyenne IIIXL |
| Production Years | 1984 – 1998 |
| Seating | 6, 8 seats |
| Typical TTAF | 5,200 hours |
| Markets | United States, Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom, Australia |
| Price Range | $280K – $950K |
The Piper PA-42 Cheyenne III is a pressurized, twin-engine business aircraft designed for corporate transportation and personal use. Introduced in the mid-1980s, it represents an evolution of Piper's Cheyenne lineage, offering improved performance and cabin comfort over earlier variants. The aircraft features two turbocharged Lycoming engines, a pressurized cabin capable of high-altitude flight, and retractable landing gear. The Cheyenne III accommodates 6-8 passengers depending on configuration, with a spacious cabin suitable for business travel. Its maximum service ceiling of 35,000 feet and range exceeding 2,000 nautical miles make it competitive in the light-to-midsize twin category. The aircraft is popular among corporate flight departments, air taxi services, and private owners seeking reliable twin-engine performance. Key strengths include excellent payload capacity, good fuel efficiency for its class, and relatively straightforward maintenance. The Cheyenne III remained in production until 1998, and examples continue operating worldwide due to their proven reliability and cost-effectiveness compared to competing aircraft.
Max Speed: 287 knots (cruise)
Range: 2,050 nautical miles
Service Ceiling: 35,000 feet
Engines: 2x Lycoming TIO-540-C1A turbocharged
Max Takeoff Weight: 6,200 lbs
Useful Load: 1,650 lbs
Pressurization: 6,000 feet cabin altitude at 35,000 feet