Piper PA-44 Seminole

Overview

The Piper PA-44 Seminole is a four-seat, twin-engine land airplane used primarily for multi-engine training. Its two Lycoming O-360-A1H6 engines, retractable landing gear, and multi-engine systems create a different training task from single-engine aircraft. The Seminole is commonly used for engine-out procedures, instrument work, and commercial multi-engine preparation.

This record uses a general PA-44 model basis. The aircraft's serial number, equipment, propeller installation, engine configuration, and current weight record determine the applicable limitations. A pilot should not combine figures from different Seminole handbook revisions.

Performance

The model basis lists 140 kt cruise and 700 nm range. These book figures depend on power setting, altitude, temperature, wind, loading, engine condition, and reserve planning. Multi-engine performance discussions also depend on whether both engines are producing power and which configuration the chart describes.

The climb references are VX 82 KIAS for angle and VY 88 KIAS for rate. The POH charts and engine-out procedures provide the relevant context. A calculator can support basic study, but it does not replace the aircraft's approved performance procedures.

V-speeds

The reference schedule lists VNE 202 KIAS, VNO 169 KIAS, and VA 131 KIAS at the maximum weight basis. The flap limit is VFE 140 KIAS. Multi-engine aircraft also have additional speeds and limitations that must be read from the current POH, including engine-out and single-engine climb references.

The VX, VY, and VA glossary entries explain general terms. They do not replace the Seminole's multi-engine procedures.

Weight and balance

The stated useful load of 1,175 lb must account for four occupants, baggage, and the 110 gal fuel capacity. Fuel distribution and loading affect both total weight and center of gravity. The aircraft's actual empty weight and equipment list can be materially different from the handbook example.

Use current arms, fuel quantity, occupant weights, and baggage stations in a loading calculation. The weight and balance calculator is for training and reference only.

Training notes

The Seminole's training value comes from its multi-engine systems and procedures, not simply from having two engines. Students need practice with gear, propeller, engine controls, asymmetric thrust, and the aircraft's engine-out checklist. The source aircraft and its instructor briefing should define the exact procedure set.

Variants

The Seminole II and other PA-44 documentation may differ by production series, equipment, and handbook revision. Keep a separate MDX record when a distinct source basis changes the aircraft's limitations or performance context.

Sources

The structured values use the Piper PA-44 Seminole Pilot's Operating Handbook and FAA Approved Airplane Flight Manual, with configuration context from FAA Type Certificate Data Sheet A19SO. Confirm the applicable revision, serial range, and aircraft records before using any figure.