![The author summarizes maintenance on his Piper Arrow in an Excel spreadsheet with the date and airframe time. [Credit: Les Abend]](https://www.flyingmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/FLY0226_3.2-Jumpseat-e1770993086670.jpeg?w=710&h=366&crop=1)
Why Airplane Reliability Matters More Than You Think
Another month-long excursion with mechanical issues rears its head.
Piper Arrow
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![We had to inspect the Piper Arrow's entire landing gear hydraulic system for the issue. [Credit: Les Abend]](https://www.flyingmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/CHOICE2.jpeg?w=780&h=470&crop=1)
Landing Gear Problems…and True Love
Safely navigating a mechanical challenge on a Piper Arrow proves to be an experience.
This 1976 Piper Arrow III Is a Reliable, IFR-Ready Cruiser ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick
Well-kept, retractable-gear classic blends reliable performance with updated avionics.
This 1979 Piper PA-28RT-201 Arrow IV Is a Well-Equipped, T-Tail ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick
With 200 hp on tap, the Arrow IV is a versatile performer.
Half Century of Flight Has Included Some Altitude and Ground Speed
Pilot career experiences both fast and slow, and high and low.
This 1979 Piper PA-28RT-201 Arrow IV is a Stylish, T-Tail ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick
This sleek, high-performance Arrow is a departure from the modest versions of a decade earlier.
This 1974 Piper PA-28R-200 Arrow Is a Cost-Conscious, Complex ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick
A boost in power over earlier Arrows makes this version a sweet spot among retractables.
Kentucky Bourbon Trail Proves Worthy of a Flying Adventure
A trip to take in the Kentucky Bourbon Trail makes for a pleasant flying adventure.
Engine Troubleshooting in Double Time
With my Piper Arrow loaded to its full capacity of four people (including me, two journalists, and an environmental executive director), the Lycoming IO-360 engine decided it no longer wanted to participate at full power.
