Cessna 172R Skyhawk

The Cessna 172R Skyhawk is a four-seat, high-wing, fixed-tricycle-gear piston single that returned the fixed-gear Cessna 172 to production in the 1990s. It uses the fuel-injected Lycoming IO-360-L2A rated at 160 hp and has a maximum certificated takeoff weight of 2,450 lb.

The 172R introduced a substantially different engine installation from the carbureted O-320-powered 172N and 172P models. It was followed by the higher-powered 172S Skyhawk.

The Cessna 172R was developed as the return-to-production model for the fixed-gear Cessna 172 line after the earlier production hiatus. FAA Type Certificate 3A12 was amended for the Model 172R on June 21, 1996, with serial-number applicability beginning at 17280001.

Production aircraft followed for the 1997 model year. The 172R combined the established four-seat Skyhawk configuration with the fuel-injected Lycoming IO-360-L2A engine rated at 160 hp at 2,400 rpm.

The later 172S retained the same basic engine model but increased the factory rating to 180 hp and raised normal-category maximum takeoff weight to 2,550 lb.

The standard Cessna 172R fuel system has a total capacity of 56 U.S. gallons, of which 53 gallons are usable.

Total fuel capacity and usable fuel are different quantities. Weight and balance calculations should use the actual usable fuel carried and the loading information applicable to the individual aircraft.

Model designation identifies the basic 172R type, but equipment, avionics, optional installations and approved modifications can differ between individual aircraft and production years.

For operating limitations and weight and balance, use the POH or AFM, supplements, equipment list and current weight and balance records applicable to the specific serial number and installed configuration.

The 172R and 172S use the same basic Lycoming IO-360-L2A engine model, but the standard factory ratings are different. The 172R is rated at 160 hp at 2,400 rpm, while the 172S is rated at 180 hp at 2,700 rpm.

The standard 172S also has a higher maximum takeoff weight. Weight limits and loading information therefore should not be transferred between the two variants without confirming the exact model and aircraft configuration.

Cessna 172R weight and balance calculations must use the certified limits and loading data applicable to the exact aircraft configuration, together with the current basic empty weight and moment or arm for the individual airplane.

Fuel, occupants and baggage must be loaded within the applicable station and compartment limits. Approved modifications can also affect empty weight, moment and operating limitations.

The current POH or AFM, supplements, equipment list and aircraft weight and balance records remain the controlling references for an individual airplane.