Piper PA-25 Pawnee — Airworthiness Directives

This document is a statement by Kenneth Sorenson regarding the use of Piper PA-25 Pawnee aircraft for glider towing operations. It provides insights into the operational status of PA-25s within the gliding community, particularly focusing on their use in towing gliders. The statement is based on a survey conducted among organizations and individuals involved in soaring operations across the United States. The document aims to inform stakeholders about the prevalence and reliance on the PA-25 for glider towing, highlighting the number of aircraft and organizations involved in such operations. It serves as a response to a proposed FAA Airworthiness Directive applicable to the Piper PA-25.

• 121 organizations and individuals surveyed regarding PA-25 glider towing.
• 143 PA-25 aircraft are used exclusively for glider towing.
• 97 organizations operate at least one PA-25 for glider towing.
• 71 organizations rely solely on the PA-25 for towing.
• 15 small commercial operations use 33 Pawnee PA-25s for glider training.