[Eric Parks]

Eric Parks on February 3, 2021 at 7:34 am #20490

Rick,

Obviously a lot of similarity between the Saratoga and the Seneca since the Seneca is just a “twin Saratoga”. However, they are two very different planes even with a lot of shared DNA. Obviously from the choice of the two I assume you want a comfortable plane that can carry up to six. So assuming that is true you need to decide on the number of engines. If your son is going to fly the plane I would suggest the Saratoga just simply because he will need a single to fly for now. Also, even if he got his multi right away (possible) the insurance would be horrible (or not available). So just for those reasons I would suggest staying single engine for now. Maybe save the Seneca for later! When he has got his commercial and instrument out of the way and has some time built up it will make more sense to go multi.

Also, make sure you are aware of the Lance and Cherokee 6 as these are earlier versions of Saratoga and may be a better choice from a cost vs benefit standpoint. Having said that the Saratoga is a great plane!

Let us know what you come up with.

Eric

[STEVE]

STEVE on December 29, 2020 at 10:23 pm #20436

Hi Richard,
Welcome aboard.
My name is Steve, I work here to help answer techy type questions but my experience is pretty broad so ask away. If I don’t know the answer the odds are good that I know someone that does.

I’m going to give you the links to some articles that may help you along your way.
https://www.piperflyer.org/maintenance-technical/item/1259-pre-purchase-inspection-all-it-should-be.html.

https://www.piperflyer.org/maintenance-technical/item/991-pre-purchase-particulars-what-you-should-know.html

https://www.piperflyer.org/piper-models/piper-singles/piper-pa-32-series/item/1254-piper-pa-32-the-unsung-hero-of-southwest-alaska.html

https://www.piperflyer.org/opinion-commentary/item/1237-the-paradox-of-choice-airplane-edition.html

You can access these and many other Piper and airplane specific articles by clicking on the “magazine” tab at the top of this page.

Keep in touch.
Steve

[Richard Dennee]

Richard Dennee on December 29, 2020 at 1:36 am #20435

Just wanted to introduce myself…looking to purchase a Piper Saratoga or Seneca. 30 year military pilot, mostly fighters and currently flying King Air 200 and 350’s (ATP & MEI cert). My son just got his SEL Private pilots license and looking to do mostly family and recreational flying and getting my son some time in a more complex aircraft while he builds time and works toward his Instrument rating. Living in the New Bern, NC area. I’ve been researching planes for over 6 months and have narrowed it down to a Piper. Looking forward to learning from this group!
Rick D