Less payload on same planes

[Martin Di Lorenzo]

I've noticed that the payload of a new Saratoga is 482 pounds less than a '76 Lance, which is practically the same plane. I read that the planes tends to go "heavier" over the years in the production line. But 482 pounds makes a six seater a really 2 + bags... how can it happened? Is that the new ones are stronger, making a '76 Lance not that safe? Even new avionics weight less than the older ones.... What is the true behind this fact? Thanks

[HighFLyer]

I know that a major part of that extra weight is because of new FAA regulations. For instance, the new seats are required to protect a passenger to higher limits than were even considered back in the 70's. This is the only concrete change I know of, but I'm sure there are hundreds of others that add up.

[Frodo]

I think it's due to a trend today to sacrifice payload for fancy trimmings. If you compare a new C-206 to a 70's version, you will see that the new one is very fancy, but carries 200lbs less. The ultimate extension of this was a Maule M7-260C profiled in AOPA. It was a six seat aircraft that had a 180lb payload. I could not fly that airplane solo if I topped off the tanks. What good is all that room!! It looked real nice on the ramp though. I will bet that piper has done the same to its line.