The time has come for me to part with my meticulously maintained 1965 PA-24-260. I’ve flown her regularly and will continue to do so until she is sold. I’m going to miss her, but my mission has changed and I need a larger aircraft. My Comanche is hangared at KVKX. 1,000hr gear AD is due in about 450hrs Whoever buys her will also get a custom full airplane cover from Bruce’s(spinner to tail cone), custom sun shades from Bruce’s, and custom cowl plugs. As a CFI-I, I’m also willing and able to provide any needed transition training to improve pilot proficiency and​/​or to meet insurance requirements for new Comanche owners. I can send over images of the logbooks upon request.

Home Airport(s)

Potomac Airfield, Friendly, Maryland

Manufacturer year

1965

Serial Number

24-4263

Registration Number

N8807P

Make/Model

Piper PA-24-260

Airframe

-front seat shoulder harnesses -all four fuel bladders less than 6yrs old -landing gear conduits(push-pull) replaced in 2020 -landing gear transmission and motor overhauled by Comanche gear in 2020 -all three landing gear micro switches replaced in 2020 -front baffling replaced with in 2022 -Australian horn installed in 2024 -Bogart, upgraded battery box installed in 2024 -Carpet replaced in 2024 -plane power alternator installed in 2022 -voltage regulator replaced in 2021

Engine Details (e.g. Total Engine Time; Suggested TBO; Hours Remaining)

AFTT: 5186 (and counting. Still flown regularly) SFRM: 443 (Sep 2021) Prop: 634 SN

Avionics

-GNC355 coupled to dual G5s -Narco MK12D -STEC-20 autopilot(hdg lock) -60PSS- altitude hold -CGR 30P and C combo with magnetic fuel senders -Electroair toggle ignition switch w​/​ push start -SkyBeacon ADSB-out

Aircraft Model Overview (Reference only)

The Piper PA-24-260 Comanche is a sleek, high-performance single-engine aircraft that represents one of the most efficient designs of its era. Introduced in 1965 as an upgrade to the earlier Comanche models, the PA-24-260 brought increased power and improved cross-country capability, quickly earning a reputation as a fast and capable traveling aircraft. At its core, the 1965 Comanche 260 is powered by the Lycoming IO-540 engine producing 260 horsepower, delivering strong climb performance and excellent cruise efficiency. The aircraft’s clean aerodynamic design, low-wing configuration, and retractable landing gear allow it to achieve cruise speeds in the ~155–160 knot range, making it one of the faster piston singles of the mid-1960s. The cabin typically seats four occupants in a comfortable and practical layout. Compared to later variants like the 260B and 260C, the 1965 model maintains a simpler cabin configuration but still provides solid cross-country comfort. Many aircraft have been upgraded over time with modern avionics, extending their usability as capable IFR platforms. A defining strength of the Comanche 260 is its range and efficiency. With optional long-range fuel tanks, the aircraft is capable of approaching 900–1,000 nautical miles, making it well suited for serious cross-country missions. Its laminar-flow wing and efficient fuel burn give it a strong performance-to-cost ratio, which continues to attract experienced owner-pilots. Within the general aviation community, the PA-24-260 is often regarded as a “pilot’s airplane.” It offers responsive handling, strong cruise performance, and excellent efficiency, but rewards proper systems knowledge and disciplined flying. It remains a favorite among pilots who value speed and aerodynamic efficiency without stepping into more complex or turbine aircraft. The 1965 Piper PA-24-260 Comanche remains a respected and sought-after aircraft. Its blend of performance, efficiency, and timeless design ensures its continued appeal among pilots seeking a capable and classic high-performance single.