This 1978 Rockwell Commander 114 Is a Roomy, Remarkably Handsome ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

1978 Rockwell Commander 114 [Courtesy: Monica Hoffmann]

Each day, the team at Aircraft For Sale picks an airplane that catches our attention because it is unique, represents a good deal, or has other interesting qualities. You can read Aircraft For Sale: Today’s Top Pick at FLYINGMag.com daily.

Today’s Top Pick is a 1978 Rockwell Commander 114.

Rockwell International, famous for producing the B-1 Lancer bomber and components for U.S. military and space programs, got into a lot of businesses over its long history, including general aviation.

The company acquired the speedy Meyers 200 design and other small GA aircraft in efforts to break into the civil aviation business and diversify away from strictly military applications. After failing in those forays, Rockwell decided to build its own version of the ideal personal aircraft, the Commander 114.

Powered by a 260 hp Lycoming IO-540, the 114 was intended to compete with Piper Comanches, Beechcraft Bonanzas, and the like. While never as fast as a Bonanza, the Commander built a following because of its wide, comfortable cabin, handsome design, and pleasant and forgiving handling.

Commander owners also point to the build quality of their airplanes, from their stout, trailing link landing gear to their precisely shaped and fitted dual cabin doors. Owners are also likely to tell you that their aircraft are “fast enough.”

This 1978 Commander 114 has 639 hours on the airframe, its 260 hp Lycoming IO-540 engine, and two-blade Hartzell propeller. In the cabin, the panel was refurbished in 2022 and upgraded with Aspen and Garmin avionics. The aircraft received new paint and interior with leather upholstery in 2021.

Pilots who are looking for comfortable, high-performance four-seat retractable with a combination of sharp looks and rarity that attract attention on the ramp, should consider this 1978 Rockwell Commander, which is available for $225,000 on AircraftForSale.

If you’re interested in financing, you can do so with FLYING Finance. Use their airplane loan calculator to calculate your estimated monthly payments. Or, to speak with an aviation finance specialist, visit flyingfinance.com.