Archer LX vs Arrow
The Arrow leads, topping 5 of 7 compared metrics.
Cross-shopping the Piper Aircraft Archer LX (introduced 2017) against the Piper Aircraft Arrow (introduced 1967) is a common decision, and the two sit closer on paper than the badges suggest. Both are trainers, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. The clearest separation between them is range, where the Arrow has the advantage. Below we compare them spec by spec, then break down which aircraft suits which mission.
6 more specs per aircraft — ceiling, climb, cabin, dimensions and more — are free with an account.
Archer LX vs Arrow: the key differences
- The Arrow delivers 51% more range (Archer LX: 522 nm; Arrow: 786 nm).
- The Arrow delivers 9% more cruise speed (Archer LX: 128 kt; Arrow: 140 kt).
- The Archer LX and Arrow are evenly matched on passenger capacity, both at 4 seats.
- The Archer LX is the newer design (introduced 2017 versus 1967 for the Arrow), a gap of 50 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The Arrow is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (2,900 lbs versus 2,558 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
Which mission suits which aircraft
Both aircraft are built for short-haul and regional hops, so outright range rarely separates them — the call leans on cabin (the Archer LX seats more), trip economics and what is actually available on the market. Match the airframe to how you fly most weeks, not to the headline range figure.
Which should you choose?
Choose the Arrow when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the Archer LX when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the Arrow holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
More comparisons
Archer LX vs Arrow: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the Archer LX or the Arrow?
The Arrow has the longer published range — 786 nm versus 522 nm for the Archer LX.
Which is faster, the Archer LX or the Arrow?
The Arrow cruises faster, at 140 kt versus 128 kt for the Archer LX.
Which is newer, the Archer LX or the Arrow?
The Archer LX is the newer design, introduced in 2017 versus 1967 for the Arrow.
Is the Archer LX or the Arrow the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the Arrow is the larger aircraft — 2,900 lbs versus 2,558 lbs for the Archer LX.
Should I buy the Archer LX or the Arrow?
Choose the Arrow when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the Archer LX when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the Arrow holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
Still weighing up the Archer LX vs Arrow?
Specs only take you so far. Our advisors give an independent recommendation based on your mission, budget and how you actually fly — and represent your side through to purchase.