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Many Faces of the Cessna 172 Skyhawk

FLYING Staff
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Key Takeaways:

  • The iconic Cessna 172 Skyhawk is being extensively modernized, blending its classic airframe with modern technology and performance enhancements.
  • A significant trend in its revitalization involves converting existing Skyhawks to turbodiesel engines, such as the Continental CD-135 or Centurion 2.0, enabling them to operate on more efficient and readily available Jet-A fuel.
  • These updated aircraft often feature advanced flat-panel avionics (like the Garmin G500), refreshed interiors, and comprehensive airframe overhauls to create like-new training platforms.
  • Projects like Redbird's Redhawk, the 172 JT-A, and Sporty's 172LITE aim to provide more reliable, cost-effective, and modern options for flight schools and pilots.
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Discover the many faces of today’s 172 as a modern science meets a classic.

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With more than 43,000 built, Cessna’s 172 ranks as the most successful light airplane ever.
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Redbird’s Skyhawk project, which it calls the “Redhawk,” takes an existing Skyhawk and makes it like a new training airplane, with a Centurion 2.0 turbodiesel engine, new flat-panel avionics, a new comfy but utilitarian interior, an airframe overhaul and new paint. (Photo by Isabel Goyer)
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The refurbished Redhawk comes jam-packed with features, including the Garmin G500 cockpit. Read more about the Redhawks here. (Photo by Isabel Goyer)
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Powered by Continental’s CD-135 turbodiesel engine, the Premier Skyhawk sips jet-A fuel. (Photo by Stephen Pope)
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A closer look at Continental’s CD-135 turbodiesel engine. (Photo by Stephen Pope)
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A partnership among the ­Africair Group of Companies has been converting avgas Skyhawks to diesel birds for more than a decade.
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The Skyhawk diesel, now called the 172 JT-A, is equipped with a more powerful version of the same engine, but one that is far more reliable and better supported than the original. Read more about the Cessna 172 JT-A here.
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Sporty’s launched the 172LITE trainer, which it is offering to flight schools and flying clubs for a fraction of the cost of a new Cessna Skyhawk. Read more about Sporty’s 172LITE here.
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Superior Air Parts have created made-over budget Skyhawks. Read more about Superior’s Vantage engine replacement for the Skyhawk.

FLYING Staff

FLYING Magazine is a one-stop resource for everything aviation, including news, training, aircraft, gear, careers, photos, videos, and more.

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