Built for Eligible Piper PA-28 Models
Shop aircraft-specific Garmin autopilot packages for select Cherokee, Warrior and Arrow series aircraft.
Compare Garmin GFC 500 autopilot systems and upgrade configurations for eligible Piper PA-28 series aircraft. This collection includes aircraft-specific options for select PA-28-140, PA-28-160, PA-28-151, PA-28-161, PA-28R and PA-28RT models so you can review the available autopilot configurations for your Piper in one place.
The correct autopilot package depends on your exact Piper model designation, aircraft serial number, fixed-gear or retractable-gear configuration, existing avionics, modifications, approved installation data and the capabilities you want included. Neal Avionics can help verify aircraft eligibility and system requirements before you order.
Shop aircraft-specific Garmin autopilot packages for select Cherokee, Warrior and Arrow series aircraft.
Review pitch-and-roll systems, automatic pitch trim options and packages for fixed-gear and retractable-gear aircraft.
Get help confirming your aircraft information, installed avionics and desired autopilot capabilities before purchase.
A modern digital autopilot can make a Piper PA-28 more capable and comfortable during cross-country travel, instrument training, IFR operations and everyday flying. The Garmin GFC 500 provides an integrated flight-control solution with aircraft-specific configurations available for eligible fixed-gear and retractable-gear PA-28 series aircraft.
Depending on the selected package and compatible avionics installed in the panel, available capabilities may include pitch and roll control, heading and navigation tracking, altitude hold, vertical speed and indicated airspeed modes, altitude preselect, coupled approach guidance, Electronic Stability and Protection and a dedicated Level Mode.
Eligible installations may also support automatic pitch trim and manual electric trim when the required trim servo and approved equipment are included. These capabilities can reduce repeated manual trim adjustments while helping the aircraft remain properly trimmed as speed, power and vertical modes change.
Every PA-28 and instrument panel is different. The appropriate Garmin autopilot package depends on the exact aircraft model, approved system architecture, existing flight instruments, installed navigator, electrical system, interfaces and the functions you want included in the completed installation.
A 2-servo configuration provides powered pitch and roll control. This is the foundation of the Garmin GFC 500 system and may be the right choice for an owner who wants core lateral and vertical flight-control capabilities without adding an automatic pitch trim servo.
An automatic pitch trim configuration adds a dedicated trim servo to the pitch-and-roll autopilot. Automatic pitch trim can reduce the need for repeated manual trim adjustments while the autopilot is controlling the aircraft and can help maintain a properly trimmed condition as flight conditions change.
This collection includes autopilot applications for select fixed-gear aircraft such as the PA-28-140, PA-28-160, PA-28-151 and PA-28-161. These aircraft may share the PA-28 family designation, but installation hardware, serial-number eligibility, trim systems and approved configurations can vary between models.
Piper PA-28R and PA-28RT aircraft use separate aircraft-specific autopilot applications. Approved models can include select PA-28R-180, PA-28R-200, PA-28R-201, PA-28R-201T, PA-28RT-201 and PA-28RT-201T aircraft. Select a package prepared for the exact model and serial-number range rather than relying only on the general Piper Arrow or PA-28 designation.
An automatic pitch trim upgrade may be available for some compatible GFC 500 installations. Upgrade eligibility depends on the aircraft approval, existing servo configuration, wiring, trim system and installed equipment. An existing 2-servo installation should be reviewed before an upgrade package is selected.
The GFC 500 operates as part of an integrated avionics system. Compatible electronic flight instruments, displays, navigators, adapters and interfaces may be required to support the selected functions. Review the individual product listing and confirm the complete system requirements before choosing a package.
A product title that includes “Piper PA-28” does not automatically confirm that the package is approved for every aircraft in the PA-28 family. Compatibility can depend on the complete model designation, serial number, fixed-gear or retractable-gear configuration, trim system, installed avionics, aircraft modifications and current approved installation data.
Common names such as Cherokee, Warrior and Arrow are helpful when identifying the aircraft family, but the exact FAA model designation is required when selecting certified autopilot equipment. Aircraft with similar names or appearances may use different packages and installation hardware.
Before requesting a recommendation or installation quote, gather the following aircraft information:
Certified autopilot equipment requires professional installation. Product pricing does not include installation labor, wiring, circuit protection, installation materials, brackets, control-system work, panel modifications or additional interface equipment unless the individual product listing specifically states otherwise.
Frequently Asked Questions
This collection is intended for select PA-28-140, PA-28-160, PA-28-151 and PA-28-161 fixed-gear aircraft, along with eligible PA-28R and PA-28RT retractable-gear models. Approval remains model-, serial-number- and installation-specific.
Garmin’s approved-aircraft information includes select PA-28R-180, PA-28R-200, PA-28R-201, PA-28R-201T, PA-28RT-201 and PA-28RT-201T aircraft. The exact model, serial number, modifications and installed equipment must be verified before ordering.
No. Although both aircraft belong to the broader PA-28 family, fixed-gear Cherokee or Warrior models and retractable-gear Arrow models can use different hardware, installation provisions and approved packages. Select the system using the complete aircraft model designation.
A 2-servo system provides pitch and roll control. A 3-servo configuration adds a dedicated pitch trim servo when automatic pitch trim is included in the selected aircraft-specific package.
No. Some packages provide the primary pitch-and-roll autopilot without a trim servo, while other configurations include automatic pitch trim. Review the product title, included equipment and approved aircraft application before ordering.
An automatic pitch trim upgrade may be possible for some compatible installations. The existing autopilot configuration, installed servos, wiring, trim system and aircraft approval must be reviewed before an upgrade package is selected.
Required instruments and interfaces depend on the approved system architecture. Compatible Garmin electronic flight instruments or displays may include equipment such as the GI 275, G5, G500 TXi or G3X Touch when installed in an approved configuration. Additional navigation and interface equipment may be required for specific functions.
When paired with compatible and properly installed navigation equipment, supported GFC 500 configurations can provide coupled navigation and instrument approach capabilities. Available modes depend on the navigator, flight display, installed interfaces and approved aircraft configuration.
Reuse options depend on the existing system and approved installation design. Do not assume that existing servos, brackets, wiring, trim components or control equipment can be retained without an inspection and installation review.
No, unless the individual product listing specifically states that installation is included. Installation labor, wiring, circuit protection, brackets, control-system work, panel modifications, additional avionics and interface equipment can affect the final project price.
Provide Neal Avionics with your complete aircraft model designation, serial number, N-number, current panel equipment, existing autopilot information and desired capabilities. Our team can help identify the appropriate configuration and determine what additional equipment or installation planning may be required.
Aircraft-Specific Assistance
Garmin autopilot packages can look similar while containing important model-, gear- and installation-specific differences. Contact Neal Avionics before ordering and let our team help verify the correct system for your aircraft, panel and desired capabilities.
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