

The 172 is also the larger of the two, being able to carry up to four people, and is very easy to handle, especially when you consider its low stall speed (49 mph vs 54 mph). 415 nautical miles), and higher service ceiling (14,700 ft vs. 126 mph), better range (696 nautical miles vs. There’s no doubt that the Cessna 172 is more capable than the 152 with its higher maximum speed (140 mph vs. The Cessna 172 is the bigger of the two with its four-seat capacity, so is better for larger people, is particularly common for cross-country time building due to its faster speeds and capacity, and is the better family plane. The Cessna 152 is small, economical and easy to fly, which has resulted in its ubiquitous appearance in flight schools across the country and world. The Cessna 152 and 172 are both very popular planes used for flight training and personal use, but the 152 is the plane that most aspiring pilots will get behind the cockpit in for flight training. Wing Loading: 14.1 lb/sq ft (68.6 kg/m2)Ĭessna 152 vs 172 Key Differences Purpose.Never Exceed Speed: 163 kn (188 mph, 302 km/h) (IAS).Stall Speed: 47 kn (54 mph, 87 km/h) (power off, flaps down).Propellers: 2-bladed metal, fixed pitch.Powerplant: 1 × Lycoming IO-360-L2A four cylinder, horizontally opposed aircraft engine, 160 hp (120 kW).Fuel Capacity: 56 US gallons (212 litres).Ferry Range: 795 mi (1,279 km, 691 nmi) with long-range tanks.Stall Speed: 49 mph (79 km/h, 43 kn) (power off, flaps down).Propellers: 2-bladed fixed pitch, 69-inch (180 cm) McCauley or 72-inch Sensenich propeller.Powerplant: 1 × Lycoming O-235-L2C flat-4 engine, 110 hp (82 kW).Capacity: One passenger (plus two children not exceeding 120 lb (54 kg) on optional baggage compartment bench seat).Role: Basic trainer, GA private aircraft.If measured by its longevity and popularity, the Cessna 172 is arguably the most successful aircraft in history.īoth planes share some similarities along with a few key differences, including the size of the cockpit, safety records, their price, and overall performance. Both are used for flight instruction and private use, though the 152 is the more popular due to it being the less expensive of the two to learn how to fly in. The Cessna 152 and 172 are two of the most popular and classic airplanes in the world.
