Piper Aircraft Pa-46-500tp

Single Turboprop

The Piper M700 represents the latest evolution of the PA-46 Meridian, a pressurized single-engine turboprop that has carved out a unique niche in owner-flown business aviation since its introduction in 2015. Built by Piper Aircraft in Vero Beach, Florida, the M700 is essentially a refined Meridian with upgraded avionics and interior appointments, powered by a Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-42A turbine producing 500 shaft horsepower. What distinguishes the M700 in the light turboprop market is its combination of cabin pressurization, jet-like cruise speeds around 260 knots, and a service ceiling of 30,000 feet, capabilities typically reserved for much larger twin-engine aircraft, all in a package that can be flown by a single pilot under Part 91 operations. The M700's pressurized cabin maintains a sea-level environment up to 8,000 feet and offers seating for up to six occupants in club configuration, making it a popular choice for owner-pilots stepping up from high-performance piston singles like the Malibu or Mirage. With a maximum range of approximately 1,000 nautical miles and a fuel burn around 40 gallons per hour, it strikes a practical balance between operating economy and performance. The Garmin G1000 NXi avionics suite includes synthetic vision, advanced weather radar, and integrated autopilot with envelope protection, features that have made the type particularly appealing to technically proficient owner-operators who value single-pilot capability without sacrificing safety margins. While the M700 shares its basic airframe DNA with the piston-powered Malibu that first flew in 1979, the turboprop conversion fundamentally transformed the aircraft's operating envelope and mission profile. The PT6A engine's reliability and smooth power delivery, combined with the elimination of the piston engine's altitude limitations, allow the M700 to routinely operate in the flight levels where weather can be topped and true airspeeds approach those of light jets. This capability has made it a favorite among corporate flight departments seeking economical point-to-point transportation and private owners who want turbine performance without the complexity and operating costs of a twin. SkyMeter has tracked 104 flights across 35 airframes and 23 operators, with FAIRCLOTH HOMES OF SAVANNAH INC the largest observed operator.