Cessna 172: The Enduring Skyhawk
An in-depth exploration of the world's most produced aircraft, from its foundational design to its enduring legacy in general aviation.
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The Ubiquitous Skyhawk
General Introduction
The Cessna 172 Skyhawk is an American four-seat, single-engine, high-wing, fixed-wing aircraft manufactured by the Cessna Aircraft Company. First flown in 1955, it has become the most produced aircraft in history, with over 44,000 units built as of 2015. It was developed from the 1948 Cessna 170, distinguished by its tricycle landing gear configuration.
Production and Legacy
The first production model was delivered in 1956. After a production hiatus from 1986 to 1996, manufacturing resumed and continues to this day. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its robust design, reliability, and versatility in general aviation, flight training, and personal transport.
Market Position
Throughout its history, the Cessna 172 has faced competition from aircraft such as the Beechcraft Musketeer, Grumman American AA-5 series, and Piper PA-28 Cherokee. More contemporary competitors include the Diamond DA40 Diamond Star and Cirrus SR20.
Foundational Design and Evolution
Genesis and Key Innovations
The Cessna 172 originated as a tricycle landing gear variant of the taildragger Cessna 170. The initial 1955 prototype, powered by a Continental O-300-A engine, was certified under the Cessna 170 type certificate. This configuration provided enhanced ground handling and stability.
Aesthetic and Aerodynamic Refinements
The 1960 model year introduced a significant design update with a swept-back vertical tail and rudder, a feature that has remained a hallmark of the aircraft. Further refinements in the 1963 172D model included a lowered rear fuselage and an "Omni-Vision" rear window, improving pilot visibility. Post-resumption production in 1996 incorporated modern interiors and avionics packages.
A Spectrum of Skyhawks: Model Evolution
Early Models (1956-1962)
The initial 172 (1956-1959) featured a Continental O-300-A engine. The 172A (1960) introduced a swept tail and O-300-C engine. The 172B (1961) incorporated shorter landing gear and the "Skyhawk" deluxe option, while the 172C (1962) added fiberglass wingtips and redesigned seats.
Mid-Generation Advancements (1963-1972)
The 172D (1963) brought the "Omni-Vision" rear window and increased gross weight. Subsequent models like the 172E (1964) featured updated instrument panels with circuit breakers, and the 172F (1965) introduced electrically operated flaps, also serving as the basis for the T-41A trainer. The 172I (1968) marked the transition to Lycoming engines (150 hp), and the 172L (1971-1972) adopted tapered tubular steel landing gear legs.
Modernization and Performance (1973-1998)
The 172M (1973-1976) featured a "Camber-Lift" wing for improved low-speed handling and became exclusively known as the "Skyhawk" from 1976. The 172N (1977-1980) introduced a 160 hp Lycoming engine. The 172P (1981-1986) used a more reliable Lycoming O-320-D2J and saw increased gross weight. The 172Q "Cutlass" (1983-1984) offered a 180 hp Lycoming O-360. Post-resumption, the 172R (1996-1998) featured a fuel-injected engine and improved soundproofing.
The Skyhawk SP Era (1998-Present)
The 172S Skyhawk SP, introduced in 1998, is powered by a 180 hp Lycoming IO-360-L2A engine, offering enhanced performance and a higher gross weight. This model is often equipped with the Garmin G1000 avionics suite and leather interiors, representing the current production standard.
Customization and Performance Enhancements
Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs)
The Cessna 172's adaptability is significantly enhanced through a wide array of Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs). These allow for substantial modifications, including upgrades to engine power, ranging from the standard 160-180 hp up to 210 hp, and the installation of constant-speed propellers for improved performance across various flight regimes.
Performance and Efficiency Upgrades
Owners can opt for modifications that improve operational efficiency and performance. These include the ability to use readily available automobile gasoline (mogas) in place of aviation gasoline (Avgas), extended wingtip fuel tanks for increased range, and aerodynamic enhancements like wheel pants to reduce drag. Specialized STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) kits are also available to improve low-speed handling and short-field capabilities.
A Legacy of Flight
Origins and Development
The Cessna 172's first flight occurred on June 12, 1955, with its introduction to the market in 1956. It evolved from the earlier Cessna 170, incorporating tricycle landing gear for improved ground handling. The aircraft's design philosophy prioritized stability, ease of operation, and cost-effectiveness.
Production Milestones
Production initially ran from 1956 to 1986. Due to rising product liability costs, production was halted. It resumed in 1996 at Cessna's new facility in Independence, Kansas, with updated models reflecting advancements in avionics, materials, and safety features.
Industry Context
The 172 has consistently been a benchmark in the light aircraft segment. Its primary competitors have included aircraft from Piper, Beechcraft, and Grumman. The aircraft's widespread adoption has cemented its status as a cornerstone of general aviation worldwide.
Setting the Bar: Endurance Records
The Timm and Cook Endurance Flight
From December 4, 1958, to February 7, 1959, Robert Timm and John Cook achieved a remarkable feat by setting the world record for refueled flight endurance in a Cessna 172, registration N9172B. This historic flight lasted an astonishing 64 days, 22 hours, 19 minutes, and 5 seconds.
Scope and Purpose
During their record-setting flight, Timm and Cook covered an estimated 150,000 miles, equivalent to over six circumnavigations of the Earth at the equator. The flight was undertaken as a charitable effort to raise funds for the Damon Runyon Cancer Fund, highlighting the aircraft's capability and the crew's dedication.
Historic Preservation
The specific Cessna 172 that accomplished this endurance record, N9172B, is preserved and displayed at McCarran Field (now Harry Reid International Airport) in Las Vegas, Nevada, serving as a monument to aviation endurance and a significant chapter in the 172's history.
Global Reach: Military and Civilian Users
Military Service
The Cessna 172, particularly in its T-41 Mescalero variant, has been widely adopted by military forces globally as a primary trainer and for liaison duties. Its robust design and relatively low operating costs make it suitable for basic flight instruction and various support roles. Notable military operators include the United States Air Force, Army, and Border Patrol, as well as air forces in numerous countries across South America, Europe, and Asia.
Civilian Aviation
In the civilian sector, the Cessna 172 is a dominant force in flight training schools, charter operations, and private ownership. Its forgiving flight characteristics and widespread availability have made it an accessible platform for aspiring pilots and aviation enthusiasts alike. Its role in flight schools is critical for developing foundational piloting skills.
Technical Specifications (172R Model)
Dimensions and Structure
Crew: 1
Capacity: 3 passengers, 120 lb (54 kg) baggage
Length: 27 ft 2 in (8.28 m)
Wingspan: 36 ft 1 in (11.00 m)
Height: 8 ft 11 in (2.72 m)
Wing Area: 174 sq ft (16.2 m2)
Empty Weight: 1,691 lb (767 kg)
Gross Weight: 2,450 lb (1,111 kg)
Performance Metrics
Powerplant: 1 ร Lycoming IO-360-L2A, 160 hp (120 kW)
Propellers: 2-bladed metal, fixed pitch McCauley Model 1C235/LFA7570
Cruise Speed: 122 kn (140 mph, 226 km/h)
Stall Speed: 47 kn (54 mph, 87 km/h) (power off, flaps down)
Never Exceed Speed (VNE): 163 kn (188 mph, 302 km/h) (IAS)
Range: 696 nmi (801 mi, 1,289 km)
Service Ceiling: 13,500 ft (4,100 m)
Rate of Climb: 721 ft/min (3.66 m/s)
Avionics and Fuel
Fuel Capacity: 56 US gal (210 L) (56 US gal usable)
Avionics: Optional Garmin G1000 primary flight display system, providing integrated navigation, communication, and flight instrument data.
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References
References
- Goyer, Robert: "Skyhawk With a Bang", Flying magazine April 2008, pp. 64รขยย68. Hachette Filipacchi US Media
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