Cessna 172L Aircraft in United States

The Cessna 172 Skyhawk is the most-built aircraft in history — over 44,000 delivered since 1956, and still rolling off the Wichita production line today. This four-seat, high-wing, single-engine trainer and touring aircraft is the airplane that taught more pilots to fly than any other design. Powered by a Lycoming O-320 (160 HP) in most variants or the IO-360 (180 HP) in the 172S Skyhawk SP, the 172 cruises at 122 KTAS on 8-10 GPH with a useful load of 800-900 lbs.

Why it dominates the market. The 172 forgives mistakes — it is nearly impossible to spin, lands at 50 knots, and handles crosswinds predictably. The high wing provides excellent ground visibility and keeps passengers dry during rain loading. Thousands of flight schools, rental fleets, and private owners rely on 172s daily. No other aircraft has this depth of mechanic knowledge, parts availability, and community support.

Key variants and what to look for. The 172M/N (1968-1986) introduced the swept tail and are the most common on the used market. The 172R (160 HP, 1996-present) brought fuel injection and the Garmin G1000 in later models. The 172S Skyhawk SP (180 HP IO-360-L2A, 1998-present) is the performance model with glass cockpit options. The 172RG Cutlass added retractable gear for complex training. For pre-1968 models (172A-L), check for corrosion at the carry-through spar and comply with AD 2011-10-09 (crankshaft inspection for certain O-320-H2AD engines). On all models, nose gear shimmy damper condition and exhaust system integrity are common inspection priorities.

Market and pricing. High-time 1960s-70s 172s: $30,000-$65,000. Clean 1980s 172P with IFR avionics: $70,000-$110,000. 2000s 172SP with Garmin G1000: $200,000-$350,000. Factory-new 172S: $450,000+. TTAF, avionics suite, and engine time since major overhaul are the three biggest price drivers. A Cessna 172 for sale represents the safest, most liquid investment in piston aviation — you can always sell a 172.