HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- The 66th Force Support Squadron Aero Club recently added a new aircraft to its fleet here Sept. 10.
The Piper PA 28-181 Archer III will support flight education and pilot training requirements.
“The Archer III is a technically advanced aircraft,” said Paul Hartigan, 66th Force Support Squadron Community Services Flight chief. “It provides our pilots a step up toward what the military is using for modern avionics training.”
The fixed-gear aircraft features a glass cockpit with an avionics control panel designed to provide a seamless flying experience.
“The control panel has all state-of-the-art systems,” said Hartigan.
He added it includes dual GPS, multi-function displays, autopilot, 3D capability and other features.
The Archer III will directly support pilots pursuing a career in the Air Force.
Private flying in the aircraft can be applied toward the Pilot Candidate Selection Method score, which is used for the U.S. Air Force Undergraduate Pilot Training program.
The PCSM predicts the ability of prospective pilot candidates, includes up to 60 hours of private flying time, and the results from the Test of Basic Aviation Skills and the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test.
Hartigan said the purchase was both a modern upgrade and a fiscally responsible acquisition.
“We were able to benefit from an Air Force Services Center cost-share initiative to acquire the Archer III,” said Hartigan. “AFSVC contributed a significant portion toward the purchase of a replacement aircraft. Its compatibility with other Pipers in the fleet helps make it cost-efficient moving forward.”
The Hanscom AFB Aero Club will host a private pilot ground school starting the first week of October and has plans for an instrument pilot ground school in January 2026.