This 1976 Piper PA-31-350 Chieftain Offers Big Power, Room, and Range for Under $300K

With twin Lycoming TIO-540s and seating for eight, the Chieftain delivers utility and comfort in a classic piston twin.

976 Piper PA-31-350 Chieftain [Courtesy: Rafael Corrales]

Each day, the team at Aircraft For Sale picks an airplane that catches our attention because it is unique, represents a good deal, or has other interesting qualities. You can read Aircraft For Sale: Today’s Top Pick at FLYINGMag.com daily.

Today’s Top Pick is a 1976 Piper PA-31-350 Chieftain.

This versatile multiengine piston was built with serious utility in mind. Whether flying as a charter, corporate transport, or private hauler, the Chieftain has long been admired for its payload capacity, respectable cruise speeds, and roomy cabin.

This 1976 model, listed for $280,000, is the kind of well-cared-for twin that savvy operators appreciate.

The Chieftain’s eight-seat club configuration makes it especially appealing for passenger missions. With a clean interior and working air conditioning, the cabin offers comfort for longer flights. A full fuel payload of 1,210 pounds gives it strong versatility for balancing passengers, baggage, and range.

976 Piper PA-31-350 Chieftain [Courtesy: Rafael Corrales]

Both Lycoming TIO-540 engines were overhauled by Midwest Aircraft Services Inc. and now sit at 780 and 720 hours since major overhaul, respectively, putting them comfortably within their TBO window. The aircraft includes complete logbooks, new heated pilot and copilot windshields installed in 2015, and recent maintenance, including IFR certification completed on May 8, 2023.

Avionics are current and capable. A few of the aircraft’s noteworthy features are its Garmin GNS530W GPS/nav/com, PMA8000G audio panel, ADS-B In and Out, XM weather and music, JPI 790 engine monitor, and GMX200 multifunction display. The aircraft also has a Bendix/King KFC200 autopilot, dual transponders, full set of copilot instruments, and 406 MHz ELT.

The airplane has a documented damage history with gear collapses in 2012-13, but repairs were completed and it remains in airworthy condition. Tail AD 16-05-01 has been complied with in accordance with Service Bulletin 127A. The paint is in good condition, as is all exterior glass.

With 25 hours flown in the past six months, this 1976 Chieftain represents a mature but well-equipped platform for a wide range of operations. For buyers seeking a capable, IFR-certified twin with proven systems and real-world utility, this Piper PA-31-350 offers solid value.

If you’re interested in financing, you can do so with FLYING Finance. Use our airplane loan calculator to calculate your estimated monthly payments. Or, to speak with an aviation finance specialist, visit flyingfinance.com.

Matt Ryan

Matt's eyes have been turned to the sky for as long as he can remember. Now a fixed-wing pilot, instructor and aviation writer, Matt also leads and teaches a high school aviation program in the Dallas area. Beyond his lifelong obsession with aviation, Matt loves to travel and has lived in Greece, Czechia and Germany for studies and for work.
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