Introduction
According to Piper, the M350 is the only pressurized aircraft in its class. The M350 was debuted in 2015 when Piper released the new M-Class aircraft based on the former PA-46 Malibu family. The Piper M350 is an improved version of the Malibu Mirage, with the same wings but new avionics, electronic stability protection, stall prevention, and other improvements.
The Piper M350 is a six-seat, low-wing, single-engine airplane with retractable tricycle landing gear. It has cabin-class accommodation as well as all the safety measures.
The aircraft’s hypoxia safety system is one of the most often mentioned characteristics. Piper M350 offers several appealing features, including a comfortable, aesthetically pleasing, and ergonomic cabin. The M350 has the best interior, including luxury leather, carpet, and wood/metal detailing.
With one of the most extensive upgrade choices available, the Piper M350 is one of the finest alternatives in its class of six-seater piston aircraft in terms of performance, aesthetics, safety features, comfort, and upgradability.
Piper M350 Specifications
The Piper M350 is a single-engine turbocharged piston aircraft with retractable tricycle landing gear that seats six people in a low, pressurized configuration. The PA-46 Malibu Mirage serves as the basis for this design. In the opinion of Piper, it’s the only aircraft of its kind to have a pressurized cabin. With the M350’s bleed air, you may fly at 25,000 feet and still reach cabin altitudes of 8,000 feet. This greatly improves comfort.
The cabin’s interior is equally as significant as the cabin’s altitude in terms of comfort. In addition, the Piper M350 has a better cabin design. A spacious cabin, power outlets, lighting controls, beverage holders, a worktable, and seat controls for each passenger contribute to the cabin’s high level of comfort. Passengers will arrive calm, refreshed, and ready for anything thanks to six luxury leather seats and a large in-cabin baggage compartment, among other amenities.
Yet perhaps the most significant upgrade making the M350 different from the previous model Malibu Mirage is its advanced avionics, which Piper likes to talk about. The Piper M350 comes with a Garmin G1000 Nxi avionics suite that is used in much current general aviation aircraft. G1000 Nxi system is an upgraded version of the legacy G1000 glass flight deck platform, increasing its capabilities.
Three screens were installed in the cabin increasing the pilot comfort and making constant information flow possible. There is more processing power in the M350 avionics, as well as higher-resolution displays and an enhanced operational feature such as SurfaceWatch runway identification and wireless cockpit connectivity via Connext (Flight Stream 510).
The Garmin GFC 700 autopilot, which is part of the main avionics package, provides an enhanced approach and landing assistance to pilots. The aircraft’s safety systems, on the other hand, are probably the most often mentioned features including a pulse oximeter.
In the event of hypoxia-induced loss of control, the autopilot will enforce safe flying parameters by policing the aircraft envelope. It will also prevent the aircraft from stalling if it is traveling too slowly, seizing control, and lowering the nose (USP System), which should motivate the pilot to add more power.
Table 1: Piper M350 Specs – Source: Official Brochure
| Wingspan | 43 ft (13.1 m) | External Baggage | 13.0 cu ft (37 cu m) |
| Height | 11.3 ft (3.4 m) | Seats | 6 |
| Length | 28.9 ft (8.8 m) | Max Ramp Weight | 4,358 lbs (1,997 kg) |
| Cabin Volume | 165 cu ft (4.67 cu m) | Max Takeoff Weight | 4,340 lbs (1969 kg) |
| Cabin Length | 12 ft 3 in (3.73 m) | Max Landing Weight | 4,123 lbs (1,870 kg) |
| Cabin Width | 4 ft 1 in (1.25 m) | Max Zero Fuel Weight | 4,123 lbs (1,870 kg) |
| Cabin Height | 3 ft 11 in (1.18 m) | Standard Empty Weight | 3,050 lbs (1,383 kg) |
| Door Dimensions | 3 ft 10 in*2.0 ft (1.16 m * 0.61 m) | Fuel Capacity, Usable | 120 gallons (454 liters) |
| Internal Baggage | 20.0 cu ft – 100 lbs (0.57 cu m – 45 kg) | Payload With Full Fuel | 588 lbs (267 kg) |
Piper M350 Performance and Handling
The Piper M350 is powered by a Lycoming TIO-540-AE2A turbocharged six-cylinder piston engine that produces 350 horsepower. Piper uses Hartzell 3-Blade Constant Speed Composite versions with diameters of 80 inches. The M350 has a maximum cruising speed of 213 ktas and a range of 1,343 nm with this engine combination. This means it can travel from Chicago to Salt Lake City or Phoenix, or from London to Naples, for example.
M350 employs the GFC 700 autopilot to aid in the approach and landing. The GFC 700 autopilot effortlessly transitions from en route flying to the terminal area using WAAS GPS-based guidance from the NXi system. It has a 3-degree glide path that can be autopilot-coupled down to pilot-selectable minimums for most runways. When the weather is clear, the NXi series improves situational awareness by including Visual Approach capabilities.
When it comes to performance, the Piper 350 is a piston single that delivers just what you’d expect. It’s well-balanced and easy to fly. All axes have modest control forces, but the roll axis is particularly unexpected given the aircraft’s large wingspan. Aircraft have a nice yaw damper to combat the tendency to yaw when flying through turbulent air. This keeps the aircraft’s excellent handling qualities intact.
Table 2: Piper M350 Performance – Source: Official Brochure
| Engine | Lycoming TIO-540-AE2A – 6 cylinders | Ground Roll (Takeoff) | 1,087 ft (331 m) |
| Horsepower | 350 hp | Total Over 50 ft Obstacle (Takeoff) | 2,090 ft (637 m) |
| Propeller | Hartzell 3-Blade Constant Speed – 80 in | Ground Roll (Landing) | 1,020 ft (311 m) |
| Max Cruise Speed | 213 ktas (395 km/h) | Total Over 50 ft Obstacle (Landing) | 1,968 ft (600 m) |
| Range with 45 min Reserve | 1,343 nm (2,487 km) | Cabin Pressurization – Max Cabin Differential | 5.5 psi |
| Max Approved Altitude | 15,000 ft (7,620 m) | FIKI Certified | Optional |
Piper M350 Modifications and Upgrades
As previously said, the Piper M350 is one of the most straightforward aircraft in its class to modify, owing to Piper’s clear instructions. The awareness package, the weather package, and the premium package are the three prime upgrade package choices offered by Piper. Additionally, each piece of equipment may be purchased separately. Piper also provides a variety of interior color choices.
Table 3: M350 Premier Package Options – Source: Piper Website
| Standard Features | ||||
| Garmin G1000 Nxi Avionics with GFC 700 Autopilot | GMC 701 AP Controller and Yaw Damper System | GCU 476 Keypad | Garmin GI-275 Standby | GMA-350C Digital Audio Panel |
| GTX 345R Transponder (ADS-B IN & OUT) | Garmin FliteCharts | Garmin SafeTaxi | PiperAire Air Conditioning | Speed Brakes |
| Bose A20 Headsets (2) | USB Charging Ports | Integrated Digital Cabin Pressurization | Rosen Shades | Pulse Oximeter |
| Awareness Package Upgrade ($89,391) | ||||
| SurfaceWatch – Enhanced FCS Enablement – Jeppesen Chartview -Garmin Synthetic Vision – TAWS-B (Terrain Awareness and Warning System) – GTS 825 Traffic Advisory System | ||||
| Weather Package ($156,800) | ||||
| GWX 75 Weather Radar – GDL 69A SXM – Satellite Radio/Weather – Flight Into Known Icing (FIKI) – L3 WX-500 Stormscope | ||||
| Premium Package ($55,018) | ||||
| 110 Volt AC Power Outlet, GSR 56 Iridium Transceiver, Flight Stream 510, Executive Interior, AmSafe Seatbelts Pilot, and Co-pilot positions | ||||
| *All these upgrades can be purchased as single equipment. | ||||
Piper M350 Prices
The Piper M350’s standard equipped list price is $1,212,925. The pricing of avionics equipment and premier package choices, as well as interior upgrade prices, may be found on the Piper website. Based on the combination of extras added, used M350 costs are approximately or slightly $1 Million.
Piper is just as open in terms of operational costs as they are in terms of prices. According to 0.54 man-hours each flight, the M350 maintenance labor cost is $46.98 per flight hour. Engine restoration costs are calculated at $43.10 per flight hour based on standard overhaul and hot section inspection. The price of $28.55 per flying hour includes airframe, avionics, and minor engine consumable parts that require planned or unscheduled maintenance.
Piper M350 Maintenance Schedule
The Piper M350 Maintenance Manual can be used to determine the time and restrictions for maintenance. Every owner should keep in close touch with an authorized Piper Service Center or Piper’s Customer Services Department to acquire the most up-to-date information about their airplane and to take advantage of Piper’s support services, according to the Pilot’s Operating Handbook. The Lycoming engine has a TBO of 2,000 hours between overhauls. Visit https://www.piper.com/technical-publications/ for the relevant technical documents.
Piper M350 Common Problems
One of the most significant issues with single-engine piston aircraft is the relatively higher frequency with which engines fail. Continental engines were unreliable in the Piper Malibu series, but the Piper M350 is powered by Lycoming engines, which are more reliable.
Even though Lycoming engines solved a significant problem, they also brought with them a slew of difficulties, including expensive maintenance costs that owners are displeased with.
Piper M350 Where to Find Replacement Parts
In the words of Piper, the company is devoted to providing its clients with the service and assistance they require to maintain and fly their aircraft safely. The Piper website provides access to an interactive map that shows the locations of the company’s service centers, as well as locations where owners may purchase replacement components. On the Piper website, you may also find part catalogs.
Piper M350 Insurance Options
Even though the M350 is a newer model, looking into PA-46 Insurance choices will help you get a better sense of what insurance options are available for the M350. The aviation insurance industry is a highly specialized one, with premiums varying according to factors such as aircraft make and model, hull value, use, and pilot history and qualifications. Aircraft insurance rates also take the loss history of individual aircraft models as well as the industry’s overall loss history into account.
There are two types of aviation insurance for the Piper M350. The first is Liability Coverage, which is standard in all aviation insurance plans. And the second is Hull Coverage, which is an optional add-on that protects the aircraft’s structure against damage. Aviation liability insurance protects the aircraft owner or policyholder from claims stemming from damage caused by the aircraft outside the aircraft, such as property damage and bodily injuries.
For a yearly policy with $1,000,000 in liability coverage, PA-46 insurance (the preceding model of the M350) costs between $750 and $1,000. Although it’s possible to get away with paying only $15,000 to $30,000 a year if the hull is covered for $900,000.
Piper M350 Resale Value
The resale value of the M350 is significantly impacted by the aircraft’s options and packages, as well as the number of hours flown and the aircraft’s condition. As previously stated, aircraft with a range of options and good maintenance are currently selling for around $1 million. Those, on the other hand, appear to be brand new, almost as if they were brand new airplanes.
Piper M350 Owner Reviews
The advantages of flying in a pressurized aircraft are well-known, but many owners are wary of the greater maintenance expenses associated with these aircraft. Owners of the M350 single-engine piston aircraft rave about its comfort.
Piper M350 Similar Aircraft
Interestingly, Piper Aircraft compares the M350 with three other aircraft in their brochure. Cessna C206T, Beechcraft Bonanza G36, and Cirrus SR22T G5 GTS are the aircraft under question. When it comes to cabin space and maximum range, the M350 is the greatest choice. But when it comes to usable load comparison, the Cessna C206T is the best choice in this comparison.
The Mooney M22, which was an attempt at a pressurized single aircraft at the time, was quite like the PA-46 Malibu in design. Even though the Cessna 210 N is a four-seat aircraft, there are occasions when it is compared to other Piper M350Â aircraft.
Piper M350 Clubs You Can Join
To meet other M350 owners and learn from them, join a group such as the “Piper Flyer Association” or the “Piper Owner Society”. Additionally, you can adhere to the Piper for owners’ official system.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Question: How fast can a Piper M350 fly?
Answer: The max cruise speed of the M350 is 213 ktas (395 km/h).
Question: Is the Piper M350 pressurized?
Answer: It’s pressured, to be sure. The cabin differential can reach 5.5 psi at its maximum. At FL250, it can keep the cabin at 8,000 feet.
Question: How many seats does the Piper M350 have?
Answer: Piper M350 has 6 seats in total.
Question: What does a Piper M350 cost?
Answer: The Piper M350’s standard equipped list price is $1,212,925. Upgrade packages are offered as an option.
Question: How fast can a Piper M350 fly?
Answer: The max cruise speed of the M350 is 213 ktas (395 km/h).
Question: Is the Piper M350 pressurized?
Answer: It’s pressured, to be sure. The cabin differential can reach 5.5 psi at its maximum. At FL250, it can keep the cabin at 8,000 feet.
Question: How many seats does the Piper M350 have?
Answer: Piper M350 has 6 seats in total.
Question: What does a Piper M350 cost?
Answer: The Piper M350’s standard equipped list price is $1,212,925. Upgrade packages are offered as an option.
Recommended Reads:
- Piper Lance Guide and Specs: Is The Piper PA-32R Worth It?
- Piper Dakota Guide and Specs: All You Need to Know
- Piper Navajo Guide and Specs: Is It Worth It?
References
Piper PA-46 Insurance Cost | BWI Aviation Insurance. (n.d.). BWI Aviation Insurance. https://bwifly.com/piper-pa-46-insurance-cost/.
Piper Malibu And Mirage – Aviation Consumer. (2003, September 19). Aviation Consumer. https://www.aviationconsumer.com/aircraftreviews/piper-malibu-and-mirage/.
Technical Publications Notification Service | Piper Aircraft. (2019, May 8). Piper Aircraft. https://www.piper.com/technical-publications/.
Piper Malibu/Mirage – AOPA. (n.d.). Piper Malibu/Mirage – AOPA. https://www.aopa.org/go-fly/aircraft-and-ownership/aircraft-fact-sheets/piper-malibu-mirage.
Whitfield, B. (2015, April 14). Piper Launches M600 And M350 | Flying. Piper Launches M600 and M350 | Flying. https://www.flyingmag.com/aircraft/turboprops/piper-launches-m600-and-m350/.
Piper Launches Three New M-Class Models, Including a New Turboprop. (2015, April 13). AVweb. https://www.avweb.com/news/piper-launches-three-new-m-class-models-including-a-new-turboprop/.
Alcock, C. (2015, April 13). Piper Launches New M600 And M350 Models | General Aviation News: Aviation International News. Aviation International News. https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/general-aviation/2015-04-13/piper-launches-new-m600-and-m350-models.
M350 Aircraft | Business & Personal Class | Piper Aircraft. (n.d.). Piper Aircraft. https://www.piper.com/model/m350/.
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