Piper Vagabond Aircraft (PA-15/17)
The Piper Vagabond (PA-15 and PA-17) is a short-wing two-seat taildragger introduced in 1948, the airplane that launched Piper's postwar short-wing line leading to the Clipper and Pacer. Light, simple and economical, it seats two side-by-side on a stubby wing with a small Lycoming or Continental engine; the PA-17 added dual controls and a slightly softer landing gear. The Vagabond is a charming, affordable classic and a favorite among vintage taildragger owners.
2 used Piper Vagabond aircraft for sale · 2-seat · Reference price ~$35,000 ($20,000–$65,000) · updated 4 days ago
Piper Vagabond Specifications
Model specThe Piper Vagabond is a 2-seat single engine piston with a cruise speed of 78 kt (144 km/h), a range of 220 nm (407 km), and a useful load of 500 lbs (227 kg).
Piper Vagabond for Sale
Piper Vagabond asking prices range from $48,000 to $52,500, with a median of $50,250 (market reference $35,000).
Compare Piper Vagabond
Detailed comparisons for the Piper Vagabond are being prepared.
Browse all Piper models →Piper Vagabond Price & Cost
How much does a Piper Vagabond cost? Used Vagabond prices: $48K – $52K, average $50K (median $50K); market reference $35K, across 2 priced of 2 active listings.
Key price factors: engine time to overhaul, year and airframe hours, avionics, damage history and logbook completeness — see the buying guide below for the full pre-purchase checklist.
Buying a Used Piper Vagabond
When buying a Piper Vagabond, the biggest value drivers are engine time since overhaul, maintenance-record completeness, damage history and avionics.
What to check before buying
- Engine time to overhaul — hours and years remaining drive price more than total airframe time.
- Logbook completeness — continuous, gap-free maintenance records protect value.
- Damage history — any prior accident or incident; cross-check the registration against accident databases.
- Avionics — a modern glass panel vs legacy steam gauges materially changes price.
- Pre-buy inspection — always commission an independent inspection by a type-experienced mechanic before money changes hands.
Frequently Asked Questions — Piper Vagabond
How much does a used Piper Vagabond cost?
What is the difference between the PA-15 and PA-17 Vagabond?
Piper Vagabond Inventory by Country
| United States | 2 |
Piper Vagabond by Price
| Under $100k | 1 |
| Under $200k | 1 |
| Under $300k | 1 |
| Under $500k | 1 |
Piper Vagabond Safety Record
No NTSB events on record for the Piper Vagabond. Individual aircraft safety records may be available on detail pages.
Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database