Cessna 172L Weight and Balance Calculator
This calculator represents the normal-category landplane loading data for the Cessna 172L from the FAA Type Certificate Data Sheet. Enter the current basic empty weight and arm from the weight and balance record for the individual aircraft.
Maximum weight: 2,300 lbs. Usable fuel: 38 US gal. Fuel arm: 48 in.
Data source: FAA TCDS 3A12, Model 172L normal-category landplane; front seats +34 to +46 in. How WBcalc sources aircraft data
Enter the aircraft loading and fuel plan to check takeoff and expected landing conditions. After calculating, you can print or save the completed weight and balance worksheet as a PDF.
Cessna 172L specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum takeoff weight | 2,300 lbs |
| Maximum landing weight | 2,300 lbs |
| Forward CG at 1,950 lbs or less | 35 in |
| Forward CG at 2,300 lbs | 38.5 in |
| Aft CG limit | 47.3 in |
| Usable fuel | 38 US gal |
| Fuel arm | 48 in |
Source: FAA TCDS 3A12, Model 172L normal-category landplane; front seats +34 to +46 in.
Cessna 172L CG limits
| Aircraft weight | Forward CG limit | Aft CG limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1,950 lbs | 35 in | 47.3 in |
| 2,300 lbs | 38.5 in | 47.3 in |
The calculator uses the published CG envelope points and linear interpolation between forward-limit breakpoints where applicable.
Cessna 172L loading stations
| Station | Arm | Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Pilot and front passenger | 34 to 46 | |
| Rear passengers | 73 in | |
| Baggage | 95 in | 120 lbs |
172L fuel capacity
This calculator uses 38 US gallons of usable fuel at an arm of 48 inches.
172L baggage limits
Baggage is limited to 120 lbs
Normal category limits
The CG envelope on this page is for the normal category.
About this Cessna 172L configuration
This page represents the normal-category Cessna 172L configuration identified in FAA TCDS 3A12, Model 172L normal-category landplane; front seats +34 to +46 in. The calculator uses a maximum takeoff weight of 2,300 lb and 38 US gal of usable fuel.
The reference datum for the loading arms on this page is Firewall / datum used by FAA TCDS 3A12.
Need help with the terminology? Read the aircraft weight and balance guide or the CG envelope guide.
Related aircraft
Cessna 172K, Cessna 172D, Cessna 172G, Cessna 172S Skyhawk, Cessna 172F, Cessna 172C, Cessna 172I, Cessna 172E
Cessna 172L FAQ
What maximum takeoff weight does this Cessna 172L calculator use?
This calculator uses a maximum takeoff weight of 2,300 lb for the configuration identified on this page.
How much usable fuel is represented for the Cessna 172L?
This page uses up to 38 US gal of usable fuel at an arm of 48 in.
What baggage limit is represented for the Cessna 172L?
Baggage is limited to 120 lb on this page.
Source and applicability
Source: FAA TCDS 3A12, Model 172L normal-category landplane; front seats +34 to +46 in. Check the current POH or AFM, aircraft weight and balance record, equipment list and applicable supplements for the individual aircraft.
WBcalc is a planning aid. Check the current POH or AFM, aircraft weight and balance record, equipment list and applicable supplements before flight.
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