Piper Aircraft Corporation was originally the Taylor Aircraft Company but was reorganized and renamed in 1937. 

In the early 1960's the U.S. Navy asked Piper to produce 20 Aztecs to their specifications which they operated until the mid 1970's. Although the Aztecs were used primarily for short-haul, light transport of parts and materiel, they also provided a safe and inexpensive way for officers who did not fly regularly to keep proficient and maintain their flight pay. The Aztec was also known as the "officers' toy" as it was used for quick flights for meetings or
dinner. 

The Marines, as well as foreign armed forces used the Aztec, but this is the only known U.S. Navy Aztec still flying. The other known Navy Aztec is at the Pima Air Museum in Tucson, AZ.