How Much Does It Cost To Buy A Cessna 172?

Cessna 172

In 1955 one of the greatest ever brands of aircraft industries, Cessna, made history by introducing to the world the Cessna 172. This remarkable air flyer left its mark on every single aviator’s mind with its super-easy controls, exceptional structure & parts, and unbelievable convenience.

The Cessna Skyhawk is well known for offering great flexibility, visibility, and usability.  It is a four-seated high & fixed-wing airplane with a sophisticated yet sufficiently strong glass-cockpit. The company has launched many new models in the recent past years.

If you are planning to buy this amazing aircraft you would want to know one major aspect related to every aircraft. And the question is how much does the Cessna 172 cost. Well, it depends… It depends on some obvious yet important factors.

Condition of Aircraft

The body of any aircraft, like any other item, influences its price to a huge extent. You can buy used models of Cessna from different dealers at a price as low as $30,000.

However, if you want to completely enjoy the freshness of a new Cessna 172, and you want to stay away from second-hand dealings, a Cessna 172 would cost you around $274,000. Obviously, buying a used one will offer a great chill to your pocket.

Model of Aircraft

In addition, different models also have largely varying costs. For instance, Cessna 172R is a slightly less powerful model of the range and can carry just around 918 lbs with it. It has a maximum speed of around 124 Knots True Airspeed and travel capacity of 640 nautical miles.

It would cost you much less than the other models of Cessna 172.

But one thing must be kept in mind that owning an aircraft does not only include the purchase price. Instead, it includes operational costs as well.

Upgrades/ Add-ons

Upgrades not only bring with them great comfort and convenience but also impart better safety and protection. Therefore, add-ons and upgrades may also be given some more emphasis than just an optional aspect. We recommend you to keep about $5,000 per annum for such unexpected expenses and add-ons.

Operational Costs

For some maintenance of the craft may be the most enjoyable part of owning a plane, whereas for some it is a big headache.

Nevertheless, maintenance is important, as power, capacity, durability, and safety all depend on the level of maintenance done for the plane.

As per the AOPA, a few of the ‘must-have’ operational costs must be considered by every owner.

  • Fuels– $40 per hour of flight
  • Oil– $2 per hour of flight
  • Engine Reserves– $1,700 per hour of flight
  • Landing fee– around $50 per 300 hours

Pls. note that these data are just as a guide and may vary with time, topography and economy of the region.

Overall Annual Cost

  • About $12,570 for light & leisure flying.
  • About $29,650 for exhaustive & adventurous flying.
Steffy Alen

Steffy Alen