This 1977 Piper PA-23-250 Aztec F Is a Heavy-Hauling ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

GA machine offers a budget-friendly entry into multiengine ownership.

1977 Piper PA-23-250 Aztec F [Credit: Gardner Aircraft Sales]
1977 Piper PA-23-250 Aztec F [Credit: Gardner Aircraft Sales]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Today's Top Pick is a 1977 Piper PA-23-250 Aztec F, presented as an accessible twin-engine option for pilots transitioning to multi-engine aircraft or building flight time.
  • The aircraft is noted for its legendary useful load, capable of carrying full fuel, passengers, and baggage, setting it apart from other light twins.
  • Priced at $67,500, its higher engine hours contribute to an attractive price point, offering a functional cockpit with modern insights like a JPI 700 engine monitor and full deice gear.
  • With an annual inspection not due until May 2026, this proven airframe is described as ready to fly, offering significant utility for instrument pilots.
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Every day, the team at Aircraft For Sale chooses an airplane that catches our attention because it is unique, a good deal, or has other qualities we find interesting. You can read Aircraft For Sale: Today’s Top Pick at FLYINGMag.com daily.

Today’s Top Pick is a 1977 Piper PA-23-250 Aztec F.

Pilots looking to step up to a twin-engine platform without the six-figure price tag usually associated with high-performance hauling, the Piper Aztec remains an enduring favorite. 

Known for its legendary useful load, the Aztec doesn’t just look the part. It delivers the capability to carry full fuel, passengers, and baggage when other light twins would be left on the ramp.

This 1977 model represents an accessible entry point into this class of aircraft. It offers a lot of airplane for the money, specifically appealing to buyers looking to build multiengine time or willing to invest in a proven airframe.

The airframe has logged 4,461 hours, showing it is a well-proven machine. While the Lycoming engines are higher time—showing 1,810 hours SMOH on the left and 2,467 on the right—this actually opens a door for the right buyer. The accessible price point reflects these hours, offering a fantastic opportunity to get into a twin immediately.

Inside, the panel is a time capsule of functional capability, featuring a classic Collins stack, a Collins 451 transponder with ADS-B Out, and a 3M WX-10 Stormscope. While the Argus 5000 moving map adds a touch of retro nostalgia, the installation of a JPI 700 engine monitor provides modern insight into engine health—a critical tool for operating a twin. Workload is managed by a Piper Altimatic III autopilot with an HSI.

Uniquely for an aircraft in this price bracket, this Aztec is equipped with full deice gear, expanding its utility significantly for instrument pilots. The exterior features a distinct polar gray, ultra black, Bahama blue and sky blue scheme, while the interior is finished in buckskin tan.

With an annual inspection not due until May 2026, this heavy hauler is ready to fly away today.

Listed at just $67,500, This Piper Aztec is a great opportunity to grab a piece of aviation history while also obtaining steady performance on a proven airframe. 

FLYING Staff

FLYING Magazine is a one-stop resource for everything aviation, including news, training, aircraft, gear, careers, photos, videos, and more.

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