Oshkosh, WI., July 20, 2026 – Piper Aircraft, Inc. is proud to announce today that Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) has selected the Piper PA-28-181 Pilot 100i to replace their existing fleet of single engine aircraft, beginning with a purchase of 2 Pilot 100is. Deliveries for EKU will start later this year. 

EKU’s Center for Aviation, located in Richmond, Kentucky, currently operates a flight training fleet of 30 aircraft. As the only FAA Part 141 collegiate flight program in the state of Kentucky, EKU has trained qualified aviation professionals since 1983, through a Bachelor of Science of Aviation degree program with concentrations in professional flight, aerospace management, UAS and professional aeronautics. 

“The addition of new Piper Pilot 100i aircraft represents a significant investment in the future of aviation education at Eastern Kentucky University,” said Dr. Tim Holt, Chair of EKU’s School of Aviation and Executive Director for the EKU Center for Aviation. “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.”

EKU cites ease of fleet maintenance, high demonstrated dispatch reliability, and collaborative fleet support as the primary reasons for their transition to an all-Piper fleet. The Technically Advanced Pilot 100i provides a versatile training platform for EKU’s students, designed to withstand the rigors of flight training. 

“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,” said John Calcagno, President and CEO of Piper Aircraft. “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.”

About the Piper Pilot 100i
The Piper Pilot 100i is a single-engine trainer aircraft designed specifically to meet the needs of flight schools and training programs. It offers a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective platform for student pilots. Featuring the advanced Garmin G3X Touch avionics suite and a dependable Lycoming engine, it serves as an ideal classroom for the next generation of aviators.

About Piper Aircraft
Piper Aircraft Inc., headquartered in Vero Beach, FL, offers aviators throughout the world efficient and reliable single- and twin-engine aircraft and is the first general aviation aircraft manufacturer in the world to certify Garmin Autoland. The single-engine M-Class series—the M600/SLS, M500, and M350—offers businesses and individuals elegant performance, value, and a superior ownership experience. The Personal Class Archer LX and Archer DLX balance proven performance, efficiency, and simplicity in a piston-powered aircraft. The Trainer Class Pilot 100i, Archer TX, Archer DX, Seminole, and Seminole DX aircraft form the most complete, technically advanced line of pilot training aircraft in the world. Piper is a member of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association. To learn more about Piper Aircraft, visit the company’s website at www.piper.com.

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Piper Aircraft
For further information, contact:
Alba Walcott

Manager, Marketing and Events
Phone: (772) 299-2835
Fax: (772) 978-6585
Mail to: alba.walcott@piper.com
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