Cessna Aircraft Company conducted the first trial flying of Cessna 172 in 1955 and put the first production model for regular flying in 1956. It is by far one of the most successful American aircraft
The four-seat aircraft is powered with a single engine and has its wings fixed on the top of its body.
Around six and a half decades of consistent performance make these flyers one of the most popular single-piston aircraft.
We would discuss here the major reasons which make these aircraft so popular.
Ease of Flying
One of the easiest planes to fly and land, Cessna 172 is the ideal craft for training. The high-wing airplane ensures that the wings fixed on the top do not obstruct the vision while landing. Moreover, high-wing provides greater stability to the plane.
Many other features of the plane besides, the aerodynamics design and modern glass cockpits make it the students’ favorite. The Garmin G1000 Avionics showcases an impressive and effective graphical interface. It, in addition, leads to better flight deck control and management.
Interestingly, the ease of use has been a priority since the first model of Cessna 172. The advancement in technology has only helped in enhancing this most adorable feature of this old champion of the sky.
Art & Craft
Those who look at an aircraft as only a symbol of engineering marvel need a rethinking. The aircraft involves a lot of art and a good amount of craft. And hats-off to the manufacturers of Cessna 172, they have never compromised with the aesthetics of the airplane a single bit.
They always believed that if the technology is growing and enhancing finer functionalities, controls, and the efficiency of their crafts, it is equally affecting the softer aspect of designing as well.
Keeping this in mind, Cessna creates unique designs to give a sense of aesthetics into the interiors of the plane. From the consoles to the baggage area and from the leather seats to the latest design windows, Cessna interiors portray elegance.
Military Operation
Renowned as training aircraft, the aesthetically designed aircraft does not let its softness comes in way of its delivering the bold and tough actions.
Yes, the T-41 Mescalero version of Cessna 172 has contributed to several US Military operations successfully.
The 210 HP aircraft equipped with the IO-360 engine, has witnessed a good number of students learning flying skills in the Air Force and the Army.
Even now, it continues to provide its services in military training and surveillance. In fact, The US-Mexico border is under constant reconnaissance through a fleet of Cessna 172 military planes.
Moreover, the Cessna 172 crafts are serving many other countries including Austria, Singapore, and Saudi Arabia, etc.