Pipistrel Panthera

Single Piston

The Pipistrel Panthera is a sleek four-seat composite tourer built by the Slovenian manufacturer best known for pioneering electric and ultralight aircraft. First flown in 2011 and certified under CS-23, the Panthera represents Pipistrel's entry into the high-performance general aviation market, combining a carbon-fiber airframe with retractable landing gear and a 200-horsepower Lycoming IO-540 engine. Its clean aerodynamics deliver cruise speeds around 170 knots while maintaining docile handling characteristics—stall speeds of 54 knots with flaps and 59 knots clean make it accessible to pilots transitioning from fixed-gear trainers. The aircraft's 205-knot never-exceed speed and 178-knot maximum structural cruising speed place it firmly in the touring category, competitive with established designs like the Cirrus SR22 and Mooney M20 series. What distinguishes the Panthera is its European design philosophy: efficient, lightweight construction (maximum takeoff weight just 2,645 pounds) paired with a spacious cabin and excellent visibility through its bubble canopy. The type has found a niche among European owner-pilots seeking cross-country performance without the complexity or operating costs of larger twins. SkyMeter has tracked 35 flights across 15 airframes and 1 operator, covering routes.