Piper announced in late 1982 the intention to introduce in late 1983 a new aircraft which it claimed to be the world's first cabin-class pressurised aircraft with a single piston engine. Designated 'Piper PA-46-310P Malibu, the aircraft is of cantilever low-wing monoplane configuration with retractable tricycle landing gear and powerplant comprising a Teledyne Continental TSIO-520-BE turbocharged engine, the pressurised cabin providing accommodation for a pilot and five passengers. Certification of the original PA-46-310P was achieved in September 1983 and deliveries commenced the following November. Four hundred and two of this version were built before it was superseded by the PA-46-350P Malibu Mirage. By spring 1991 Piper had orders for over 100 of this version but, after several aircraft broke up in adverse weather conditions, the FAA revoked its IMC certification and began a Special Certification Review. Piper worked hard to clear the design's reputation and by February 1992 the Malibu was returned to full operations.