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| STANDARD DATA: (Model 172R) Seats 4. Gross wt. 2,450. Empty wt. 1,620. Fuel capacity 56 gallons. Engine 160-hp Textron Lycoming IO-360-L2A. PERFORMANCE: Max Cruise 123 kts. Cruise 122 kts. Stall 47-51 kts. Rate of climb, sea level 720 fpm. Service ceiling 13,500′. Takeoff distance (50′) 1,685. Landing distance (50′) 1,295. |
As the general aviation market regained momentum in the 1990s, Cessna re-entered the single engine piston aircraft with the Skyhawk 172. Changes to the new aircraft were modest as the manufacturer sought to improve upon a winning design. Leather seats, a quiet cockpit, and modern avionics led the Skyhawk into the 21st century. In 2004, Cessna introduced the “most popular airplane in the world” with an all glass panel. Optional equipment for 2005 included pilot and copilot airbags.
