Piper Matrix Flies with the Big Boys

Monday, May 24, 2010 at 07:57 PM ET

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Key Takeaways:

Piper's Matrix, an unpressurized cabin-class piston single, now features a sophisticated, turbine-like cockpit equipped with a complete Garmin G1000 system and a full engine-instrument crew advisory system.
While the comfortable passenger cabin has historically been its primary selling point, the newly installed advanced glass cockpit is now a significant draw.
The aircraft offers a premium, turbine-like experience with excellent build quality, reflecting its increased price.

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Piper’s unpressurized cabin-class piston single now has the cockpit of a turbine.

A very complete Garmin G1000 system.

The passenger cabin has been the primary selling point for the Matrix, that is, until Piper installed the most advanced glass cockpit yet in a piston single. But the cabin is still one heck of a great place to ride.

For the increase in price, the Matrix or Mirage owner gets the most turbine-like single available, and an airplane built with excellent quality in every detail.

It is a terrific and welcome surprise to see a full engine-instrument crew advisory system in the Matrix, complete with dedicated master caution and warning lights.

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