Buying A Used Cessna 172

The Cessna 172 Skyhawk stands as the most produced general aviation aircraft in history, with over 43,000 units built since its introduction in 1956. This remarkable achievement speaks to the enduring appeal and practical value of this iconic high-wing single-engine aircraft. Whether you’re a flight student, a newly minted private pilot, or an experienced aviator looking for a reliable personal aircraft, a used Cessna 172 offers tremendous versatility and value.

Historical Background

The 172’s legacy began in 1955, evolving from the tail-dragging Cessna 170A. What was initially planned as the “170C” instead emerged with a revolutionary tricycle landing gear configuration, responding to the market success of Piper’s Tri-Pacer. This design change wasn’t without controversy within Cessna, and the early development was conducted secretly at an isolated farm strip away from the company’s main operations in Wichita.

The prototype’s first flight in June 1955 revealed several challenges, including ground handling concerns, potential propeller strikes, and questions about directional stability. Cessna engineers worked diligently to solve these issues, resulting in what the company would market as the “Land-O-Matic” gear—a system that would become the foundation for Cessna’s standard fixed-gear design.

Over the decades, the 172 underwent numerous improvements:

• The 172A (1960) introduced the swept vertical tail

• The 172B (1961) featured shortened landing gear and the “Skyhawk” name

• The 172D (1963) brought the “Omni-Vision” rear window

• The 172I (1968) replaced the Continental engine with a Lycoming powerplant

• The modern 172R and 172S (1997 onward) introduced fuel injection and eventually glass cockpit avionics

Why Choose a Cessna 172?

Exceptional Training Platform

The 172’s forgiving flight characteristics make it an ideal training aircraft. Its high-wing design provides excellent visibility, stable handling, and predictable response—crucial qualities for student pilots. The tricycle gear configuration simplifies ground operations and landings, particularly in crosswind conditions. This explains why flight schools worldwide have made the 172 their trainer of choice for decades.

The aircraft’s built-in aerodynamic stability is so remarkable that it can often return to straight and level flight after a spin even without pilot input. This inherent stability provides a valuable safety margin for pilots of all experience levels.

Versatility for Various Missions

Beyond training, the Cessna 172 excels in numerous roles:

• Personal Transportation: With four seats, reasonable speed (approximately 120-124 knots cruising), and a range of about 640 nautical miles, the Skyhawk serves admirably for regional trips and weekend getaways.

• Aerial Photography/Observation: The high wing provides unobstructed downward visibility, making the 172 excellent for photography, sightseeing, or observation work.

• Family Flying: The cabin offers comfortable accommodation for pilot plus three passengers, with accessible entry/exit and sufficient baggage capacity for day trips or overnight journeys.

• Business Travel: For professionals needing efficient transport between regional locations, the 172 offers cost-effective utility without the complexity of larger aircraft.

Maintenance and Support

Perhaps one of the Skyhawk’s greatest advantages is its ubiquity. There isn’t a mechanic in general aviation who can’t work on a Cessna 172. Parts availability is excellent, and the extensive fleet means a vast knowledge base exists for troubleshooting any issue. This translates to lower maintenance costs and less downtime compared to more exotic aircraft.

What to Look For When Buying:

Airframe Condition

When examining a used 172, pay special attention to corrosion, especially around the wing roots, tailcone, and lower fuselage areas where moisture can collect. Check for signs of damage history, such as ripples in the skin or mismatched paint that might indicate previous repairs.

Engine Considerations

The powerplant is a critical component affecting both performance and value. Most 172s feature Lycoming engines, with earlier models using the Continental O-300. Particularly important for buyers looking at late 1970s models (172N) is checking for compliance with ADs on the problematic O-320-H2AD engine. The major ADs include:

• AD 77-20-7: Replacement of the tappets

• AD 78-12-8: Replacement of the oil pump impeller

• AD 78-12-9: Replacement of the crankshaft

Verify engine logs thoroughly, noting time since overhaul and compression readings from recent annual inspections.

Avionics

Avionics vary dramatically across the Skyhawk fleet. Early models featured basic VFR instrumentation, while newer variants might include sophisticated glass panel systems like the Garmin G1000. If buying a model from the late 1990s or early 2000s with the BendixKing “Silver Crown Plus” avionics, check service records carefully, as these systems experienced reliability issues.

For models with the KAP140 autopilot, ensure all service bulletins have been addressed.

Safety Considerations

The Cessna 172 boasts an impressive safety record, with a fatal accident rate of approximately 0.56 per 100,000 flight hours—about half the general aviation average. However, the accident record shows certain patterns worth noting:

• Landing accidents (especially runway loss of control) represent a significant percentage of incidents

• Student solo mishaps are common, particularly during landing phase

• Forward CG loading can make the aircraft more challenging to land properly

• Fuel mismanagement accounts for a surprisingly high number of incidents despite the relatively simple fuel system

When properly operated and maintained, the 172 ranks among the safest single-engine aircraft available.

Market Values

Used Cessna 172 prices vary significantly based on year, condition, avionics, and engine time:

• Older models (1960s-1970s) with basic avionics: $50,000 - $70,000

• 1970s-1980s models in good condition: $70,000 - $150,000

• 1990s-2000s models with updated avionics: $150,000+

A well-maintained 1976 Cessna 172N that might have sold for $50,000 five years ago now fetches well over $75,000, with extensively upgraded examples approaching $120,000. Newer models with glass cockpit avionics can command prices near $300,000.

The Cessna 172 Skyhawk delivers extraordinary practical value through its simplicity, reliability, and versatility. While not the fastest or most modern design, its proven track record, forgiving handling qualities, and excellent support network make it an outstanding choice for both new and experienced pilots. Whether for training, personal transportation, or simply enjoying the freedom of flight, a well-maintained used Cessna 172 represents one of general aviation’s best investments.