Every day, the team at Aircraft For Sale highlights an airplane that stands out for its practicality, condition, or value. You can find Aircraft For Sale: Today’s Top Pick daily at FLYINGMag.com.
Today’s Top Pick is a 1978 Cessna 152.
Pilots in search of a proven flight trainer or an affordable time builder might find this Cessna 152 a dependable and efficient choice. For decades the 152 has been a favorite among flight schools and personal hangars alike for its forgiving flight characteristics, simple systems, and relatively modest operating costs.
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Based in Pendleton, Oregon, and listed for $59,000, this particular 152 features a notable upgrade that adds a bit more pep to the familiar platform. The airplane comes with a Sparrowhawk 125 hp STC conversion that boosts its power beyond the standard Lycoming O-235-L2C engine’s output. Previous ownership completed the conversion in 2005. New owners will appreciate the improved climb and cruise performance it offers.
The engine has just 478 hours since overhaul, indicating plenty of remaining life before the next major maintenance. The 152 has a Sensenich propeller and overall airframe time stands at 4,288 hours.
This 152 is ready to go with a fresh annual and 500-hour magneto inspections recently completed. The paint and interior, last updated in 2010, show their age but remain functional for training or personal use. The aircraft features practical touches such as wheel pants, steps, and handles for ease of access.
Inside the cockpit, avionics include dual RT385A nav/com radios equipped with glideslope, an R546 ADF, RT359A transponder, Sigtronics intercom, marker beacon, and traditional magnetic compass, though it currently lacks ADS-B. A comprehensive engine analyzer adds to pilot situational awareness.
With two seats and simple systems, the 152 is a natural pick for those starting their flying journey or accumulating hours efficiently. The added horsepower from the Sparrowhawk conversion allows for a bit more flexibility in performance without sacrificing the classic 152 experience.
The aircraft is currently owned and registered in Oregon. Interested buyers can request digital logbooks and additional images directly from the listing broker.
At a price point of $59,000, this 1978 Cessna 152 offers an affordable entry into piston flying with a pedigree of reliability and enhanced performance.
If financing sounds appealing, FLYING Finance is available to help start the loan process or answer any questions. You can also use our airplane loan calculator to estimate monthly payments or visit flyingfinance.com to get the process started.
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