Cessna 172 Skyhawk

Typical use: PPL Training, Touring, Instrument Rating (IR/IRR)

Specifications

• Seats: 4
• Cruise: 122 kt
• Stall speed, landing configuration: 48 kt
• Max demonstrated crosswind: 15 kt
• Take-off to 50 ft: 497 m
• Engine: Lycoming IO-360 (Piston)
• Avionics: Mixed (Analogue / G1000)
• Typical hourly rate: £220–£270/hr wet
• Resale value (2025): £80,000–£250,000+ (G1000 models)

Instructor insight

A stable instrument platform that makes IFR training easier, but its stability can mask sloppy handling skills during initial PPL training.

Student experience

Heavy control forces in the flare compared to a PA-28. High wing makes checking fuel levels physically difficult for shorter students.