The most produced aircraft in history is the Cessna 172 Skyhawk, a four-seat, single-engine light aircraft manufactured by Cessna Aircraft Company. As of 2021, more than 44,000 Cessna 172s have been built since the first model was introduced in 1956. The aircraft is widely used for flight training, personal flying, and business travel. Its popularity is due in part to its reliability, ease of maintenance, and versatility.
How much does a Cessna 172 Skyhawk cost?
The cost of a Cessna 172 can vary depending on the age, condition, and specifications of the aircraft, as well as the region where it is being sold. As of 2021, the price for a new Cessna 172 Skyhawk starts at around $400,000 USD. However, used Cessna 172s can be found for much less, with prices ranging from around $25,000 USD for older models to $150,000 USD or more for newer, well-maintained aircraft. It’s important to note that owning and operating an aircraft also comes with ongoing expenses such as fuel, maintenance, and insurance.
How much fuel can a Cessna 172 Skyhawk hold?
The fuel capacity of a Cessna 172 can vary depending on the specific model and any modifications that have been made, but in general, the standard fuel capacity for a Cessna 172 Skyhawk is 56 US gallons (212 liters). This is split between two fuel tanks located in the wings, with each tank holding 28 gallons (106 liters). The usable fuel capacity is slightly less, typically around 53-54 gallons (201-205 liters), to allow for unusable fuel in the tank and reserve fuel for emergency use. With an average fuel consumption rate of around 8-10 gallons per hour (30-38 liters per hour), this gives the Cessna 172 a range of around 500-600 nautical miles (926-1112 kilometers) with a reserve fuel of around 30 minutes.
How many miles can a Cessna 172 fly in an hour?
The distance a Cessna 172 Skyhawk can fly in an hour, also known as its range, can vary depending on many factors, such as weather conditions, altitude, weight, and fuel efficiency. However, on average, a Cessna 172 can cover a distance of around 100-120 nautical miles (185-222 kilometers) in an hour of flight, assuming normal cruise conditions and a typical fuel consumption rate of around 8-10 gallons per hour (30-38 liters per hour). This range can be extended or reduced depending on factors such as the payload carried, wind speed and direction, altitude, and the pilot’s flying style. It’s important to note that range is not the same as endurance, which refers to the amount of time the aircraft can remain in the air without running out of fuel, and can vary depending on factors such as fuel capacity and fuel consumption rate.
What is the average cruise speed of a Cessna 172?
The average cruise speed of a Cessna 172 can vary depending on factors such as the model of the aircraft, altitude, weight, and weather conditions. However, on average, a Cessna 172 can cruise at a speed of around 110-130 knots (126-150 miles per hour or 204-241 kilometers per hour), with a typical cruising speed of around 120 knots (138 miles per hour or 222 kilometers per hour) at a cruising altitude of around 8,000-10,000 feet (2,438-3,048 meters). This speed can be affected by factors such as headwinds or tailwinds, temperature, and altitude. It’s important to note that the maximum speed for a Cessna 172 is typically around 163 knots (188 miles per hour or 302 kilometers per hour) at sea level.