Cessna 172S Skyhawk

The Cessna 172S Skyhawk SP is a four-seat, high-wing, fixed-tricycle-gear piston single introduced in 1998. It uses the fuel-injected Lycoming IO-360-L2A engine rated at 180 hp and has a normal-category maximum takeoff weight of 2,550 lb.

The 172S followed the 172R in the restarted Cessna 172 production line. Although the two models share the same basic engine model, the 172S uses the higher 180 hp rating and has higher certificated weight limits.

Cessna resumed production of the fixed-gear 172 with the 160 hp 172R in the 1990s. The 172S followed in 1998 as the higher-powered version of the renewed Skyhawk line. FAA Type Certificate 3A12 was amended for the Model 172S on May 1, 1998, with 172S applicability beginning at serial number 172S8001.

Both the 172R and 172S use the Lycoming IO-360-L2A engine. The standard 172R installation is rated at 160 hp at 2,400 rpm, while the 172S is rated at 180 hp at 2,700 rpm. Normal-category maximum takeoff weight also increased from 2,450 lb on the standard 172R to 2,550 lb on the 172S.

The 172S is certificated for normal- and utility-category operation, with different certified weight limits and loading restrictions applying to the two categories.

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

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

Model designation alone does not establish the complete configuration of an individual Cessna 172S. Avionics, equipment, optional installations and approved modifications can differ by production year and aircraft.

For operational limits 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 172S followed the 172R and retained the same basic Lycoming IO-360-L2A engine model, but with a higher factory power rating and higher normal-category maximum takeoff weight. Weight and balance data therefore must be selected for the exact model and configuration.

Cessna 172S weight and balance calculations must use the loading limits for the applicable operating category and the current basic empty weight and moment or arm for the individual aircraft.

Normal- and utility-category operations use different certified weight limits. Fuel, occupants and baggage must also be loaded within the station and compartment limits applicable to the specific aircraft configuration.

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