Cessna 172 prop plane

The Cessna 172 is the most produced aircraft in history, with over 44,000 units built since 1956, used widely in flight training and general aviation.

About this subject

The Cessna 172, also known as the Skyhawk, is a high-wing, single-engine piston aircraft designed by the Cessna Aircraft Company. It first flew in 1955 and entered production in 1956. Its high-wing configuration provides excellent visibility and stability, making it ideal for student pilots.

Powered by a Lycoming O-320 engine producing 160 horsepower, the Cessna 172 achieves a cruise speed of about 226 km/h and a range of approximately 1,289 km. It can carry four people plus luggage. It is certified for visual flight rules (VFR) and, in modern versions, for instrument flight rules (IFR).

The Cessna 172 is an aviation icon, used by flight schools worldwide. Its longevity is due to reliability and low operating costs. Many pilots have their first solo flight in this model. It has also been used by military forces for training and surveillance.

Interestingly, the Cessna 172 is the most produced aircraft, surpassing the Antonov An-2. In 1958, a modified Cessna 172 set an endurance record of 64 days of continuous flight. The Cessna 172S G1000 variant introduced digital avionics, modernizing the cockpit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the Cessna 172?

Approximately 1,289 km or 698 nautical miles with full tanks.

How many people can the Cessna 172 carry?

Four people including the pilot, with limited luggage.

Is the Cessna 172 used for training?

Yes, it is the most common training aircraft worldwide, used by civil aviation schools.