Cessna 172L Skyhawk

The Cessna 172L Skyhawk, introduced in 1977, is the most produced single‑engine aircraft in the world and a cornerstone of general aviation. Built by Cessna Aircraft Company, the 172L evolved from the original Model 172 that first flew in 1955, incorporating a more powerful 160‑hp Lycoming O‑320‑E1 engine and a redesigned cabin with improved visibility. The aircraft’s all‑metal airframe, fixed tricycle landing gear, and high‑wing configuration provide stability, ease of handling, and excellent short‑field performance, making it ideal for flight training, personal travel, and aerial work. Standard features include a three‑blade Hartzell constant‑speed propeller, a spacious four‑seat cabin with side‑by‑side controls, and modern avionics options such as the Garmin G1000 glass cockpit in later retrofits. Over its decades of service the 172L has logged millions of flight hours, serving as the primary trainer for countless pilots and shaping the safety culture of aviation. Its reliability, modest operating costs, and forgiving flight characteristics have cemented the Skyhawk’s reputation as an enduring workhorse that continues to inspire new generations of aviators. Today, flight schools worldwide still choose the 172L for its dependable performance, and it remains a popular platform for experimental modifications and light‑sport conversions.