In 1961, only five years after the Cessna 172 was introduced, the airplane already had a new profile boasting a swept tailfin, redesigned cowl and pointed spinner. Short of the rear window, this fastback airplane looked very much like the Skyhawk of today. It was a huge hit and dominated its four-place, entry-level niche.
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This has been an exciting article. I own a 1960, model 172A. Had it since 1975. Flew it everyday to work at what ever airport I was working, TUS, PHX, LAS and all little airports in between and among these cities. As an Air Traffic Controller, I found it the best way to travel as I live about 100 miles east of TUS by car.
This 172 was the best investment I have ever made. Flew it to work for 31 years WITHOUT any problems what so ever, except the occasion thunderstorm, which required a little patience to outlive the storm. I did all the maintenance on it, annuals were always supervised by an AI.
I'm retired now, so instead of flying her to work. I fly her almost anywhere I want to go. She is all original except for the external oil filter and a transistor com system( instead of the old tube type Mark3 she had when I bought her).
Real proud of her, she sleeps in the hangar here at ranch that I bought some 26 years ago. She has her own private runway. Taught my 2 sons how to fly in her.
In the 31 years I've own her, she has never let me down, most reliable machine I ever owned.
Cessna makes a might fine product. One to be proud off, I am.
Thank you
The articles in Flying about the Cessna 172 have been much appreciated in our family. I originally learned to fly with Cessna 152's and 172's. We have owned a superb 1974 172-M since 1985 and have appreciated this aircraft to the max. While it may not be perfect in a huge number of area, the plane does everything well for it's type and size. The plane is docile in handling, including stalls, slow flight, spins and various utility category maneuvers. It handles very well from short fields and has good reliability. While not really a 4 adult person aircraft, it will haul 3 persons and luggage fairly well. It is also a very stable instrument platform. The 172 has very good aftermarket options and we have appreciated a number that we have added. We have also upgraded the engine at rebuild and enjoy the extra power. The file burn numbers match up with some of our cars. Our enjoyment of this "family member" continues!
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