Cessna 172 Skyhawk

Introduction to the Cessna 172 Skyhawk

The Cessna 172 Skyhawk is a single-engine, four-seat, high-wing aircraft that has become one of the most widely used light aircraft in history. It is known for its reliability, ease of handling, and suitability for flight training, private ownership, and general aviation purposes.

Key Features of the Cessna 172 Skyhawk

Lycoming O-320-E2D engine, producing 160 horsepower
McCauley 1A135/LT7504 fixed-pitch propeller
Cruising speed of 122 knots (226 km/h)
Service ceiling of 13,000 feet (4,000 meters)
Range of approximately 790 nautical miles (1,463 kilometers)

Pre-Flight Checklist

Before flying the Cessna 172 Skyhawk, it is essential to complete a thorough pre-flight checklist:

1. Control lock: REMOVE
2. Tie-downs: REMOVE
3. Fuel: CHECK
4. Oil: CHECK
5. Props: CHECK
6. Tires: CHECK
7. Control surfaces: CHECK
8. Flaps: CHECK
9. Ailerons: CHECK
10. Elevator: CHECK
11. Rudder: CHECK

Starting the Engine

To start the engine, follow these steps:

1. Master switch: ON
2. Avionics: ON
3. Fuel pump: ON
4. Throttle: 1/4 INCH
5. Propeller: PULL OUT
6. Starter: ENGAGE
7. Monitor: OIL PRESSURE, FUEL FLOW

Taxi and Runup

After starting the engine, taxi the aircraft to the runway and perform a runup:

1. Taxi: SLOWLY, AVOIDING OBSTACLES
2. Runup: 1,700 RPM, CHECK MAGNETOS, CARBURETOR HEAT
3. Propeller: CHECK FOR PROPER PITCH
4. Controls: CHECK FOR FREE MOVEMENT

Takeoff

To take off in the Cessna 172 Skyhawk:

1. Line up: CENTERLINE
2. Advance throttle: FULL
3. Monitor: AIRSPEED, ALTITUDE
4. Rotate: 55 KNOTS
5. Climb: BEST RATE, 75 KNOTS

Landing

To land the Cessna 172 Skyhawk:

1. Downwind: 1,000 FEET, 90 KNOTS
2. Base: REDUCE POWER, 80 KNOTS
3. Final: FULL FLAPS, 70 KNOTS
4. Touchdown: SMOOTHLY, AVOIDING BOUNCING
5. Taxi: SLOWLY, TO PARKING

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