Eastern Kentucky University Selects the Piper Pilot 100i as Platform for Fleet Replacement

Kentucky, USA – Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) has selected the Piper PA-28-181 Pilot 100i to replace its single-engine training aircraft, beginning with an order for two aircraft scheduled for delivery later in 2026.

• EKU currently operates 30 training aircraft: 27 Cessna single-engine aircraft across the 172-P, 172-N, 172-M, 172-R, 172-S and G1000-equipped 172-S variants, plus three Piper Seminole multi-engine aircraft.
• Deliveries of the first two Pilot 100i aircraft are scheduled to begin later in 2026.
• EKU cited maintenance commonality, dispatch reliability and manufacturer fleet support as reasons for selecting the Pilot 100i and moving toward an all-Piper fleet.
• The Pilot 100i is powered by a 180 hp Lycoming IO-360 engine and equipped with Garmin G3X Touch avionics. Piper publishes a maximum range of 522 nautical miles for the aircraft.
• The university’s professional flight concentration operates under FAA Part 141 and is Kentucky’s only university program authorized to offer graduates eligibility for a restricted Airline Transport Pilot certificate at 1,000 flight hours.
• EKU’s aviation bachelor’s degree includes concentrations in professional flight, aerospace management, unmanned aircraft systems and professional aeronautics. The university has provided aviation education since 1983.
• The acquisition also adds EKU to the Piper Flight School Alliance, the manufacturer’s network of training organisations operating Piper aircraft. 

Statements

• “The addition of new Piper Pilot 100i aircraft represents a significant investment in the future of aviation education at Eastern Kentucky University. This venture expands hands-on learning opportunities and helps ensure our graduates are prepared to meet the highest standards of the industry as aviation leaders. The collaborative relationship between Piper and EKU exemplifies a commitment to developing the next generation of skilled, professional pilots, and our unwavering commitment to excellence,” said Dr. Tim Holt, Chair of EKU’s School of Aviation and Executive Director of the EKU Center for Aviation.
• “Piper is thrilled to welcome Eastern Kentucky University to the Piper Flight School Alliance, and we are honored to join forces with such a prestigious flight training institution. We are excited to be part of Eastern Kentucky University’s growing aviation programs, and we look forward to supporting their students and instructors with the best fleet experience in today’s demanding flight training market,” said John Calcagno, President and CEO of Piper Aircraft.

Source: Piper Aircraft