This 1974 Cessna 172M Skyhawk Is a Low-Time ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

Neat, well-turned-out machine appeals to pilots with a broad range of missions.

Jonathan Welsh

Friday, June 26, 2026 at 10:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

1974 Cessna 172M Skyhawk [Credit: Rich D]

Key Takeaways:

The article features Aircraft For Sale's "Today's Top Pick," a 1974 Cessna 172M Skyhawk, underscoring the model's reemergence as a valuable and versatile all-around aircraft.
This specific Skyhawk boasts low airframe and engine times, a well-maintained appearance, and modern avionics upgrades including a Garmin GNS 430W and S-Tec Autopilot.
Priced at $175,000, it is presented as a practical, low-time aircraft suitable for pilots interested in travel, training, or building flight hours.

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Each day, the team at Aircraft For Sale picks an airplane that catches our attention because it is unique, represents a good deal, or has other interesting qualities. You can read Aircraft For Sale: Today’s Top Pick at FLYINGMag.com daily.

Today’s Top Pick is a 1974 Cessna 172M Skyhawk.

I recall reading an article years ago in which the author pondered whether the Cessna 172 was still relevant in the modern GA market. While the answer might have been in doubt at the time, it is clear today. The basic, economical, utilitarian piston single that for decades was pigeon holed as a trainer appears to be reemerging as a more appealing, increasingly valuable all-arounder.

This Skyhawk’s panel includes avionics upgrades. [Credit: Rich D]

The aircraft for sale today has the low airframe and engine times, and well-kept appearance that give buyers confidence in its overall condition and mission readiness. Its neat panel and bright, inviting interior appear fresh, new, and capable of pleasing the pilot and passengers.

This 1974 Cessna Skyhawk has 2,270 hours on the airframe and 724 hours on its 150 hp Lycoming O-320-E2D engine. The aircraft is equipped with a backup vacuum system, upgraded lighting, and a Reiff engine preheating system. Useful load is 818 pounds.

The Cessna has an inviting interior that welcomes passengers.
[Credit: Rich D]

The panel includes a Garmin GNS 430W GPS/nav/com, Bendix King KX 155, Garmin Flight Stream wireless interface, GTX 345 transponder, S-Tec Autopilot, and Artex ME406 ELT.

Pilots looking for a practical, versatile, low-time aircraft that is well-suited for travel, training or building time should consider this 1974 Cessna 172M Skyhawk, which is available for $175,000 on AircraftForSale.

If you’re interested in financing, you can do so with FLYING Finance. Use our airplane loan calculator to calculate your estimated monthly payments. Or, to speak with an aviation finance specialist, visit flyingfinance.com.