dckozak

A couple thoughts from an old salt. I got my PPL 40 years ago in a PA-28-140, not a lot different than the Archer, better wing on the new Pipers, but cockpit the same since they started building them in the 60's. Got my advanced tickets in Cessna's, 150's, 172's, bit in 152's. CFIed on all, Pipers and Cessna's. Didn't have glass back than so I'll pass judgement on that to you who are more recent to having the option. As far as the flying qualities, I think the Cessna(s) makes a better training platform, aka stalls, learning to use of trim, and use of rudder. The Piper's (of the years built I was flying) seemed better made and more robust than the Cessnas. If your learning in a warm to hot climate, the issues of ventilation, noted in another post, is worth considering. One thing not mentioned above, what is the quality of the fleet you are consider renting? I ask because most training AC are usually ridden hard and ragged. Is one better than another at this school? Look at the fleet. If it looks really bad (dirty, crappy condition of seats, broken plastic parts; find another school. If they can't keep the fleet at least looking good, how much skimping are they doing under the hood? Same could be said for the whole operation, right down to how the instructors dress and their demeanor. Its your money and it also your life, don't just consider the nearest (or cheapest!) flight school.

Good luck with your career

mspano85

Thank you all for the latest replies.

I took the Piper up on Friday afternoon with the instructor. I started ground school 2 weeks ago and it is going great.

My instructors are great and I'm learning a lot already. I ask a bunch of questions and they answer them with no problems.

I did some flyovers over my house and got to wave to my wife. It was fun.