Cessna 152
The Cessna 152 is a two-seat tricycle (three-wheeled) fixed gear general aviation airplane primarily used for flight training.
152 history
The 152, first officially manufactured in 1978, was the upgrade and modernization of the Cessna 150. 152s use only Lycoming O-235 engines, whereas the 150s use both Continental (O-200) and Rolls Royce engines.
The 150 was an enormously popular plane, with several revisions and models including the "Aerobat" acrobatic model.
The 152 not only featured a long-overdue increase in engine power, but also was compatible with the newer 100LL Low Lead fuel. The 152 also featured cabin size upgrades to accommodate larger pilots, though the 152 cabin is still fairly small and many large pilots are uncomfortable, preferring instead the more spacious 172.
Unlike many of Cessna's earlier aircraft, the 152 model stayed fairly consistent from year to year.
Cessna ceased production of the 152 along with all of their light aircraft in 1985, like many aircraft manufacturers. Total production of 152s from 1978-1985 was 7,584, worldwide.
152 facts
- More pilots have flown Cessna 150/152s than any other single model of airplane.
- More than 75% of the 152s built are still flying, 19 years after production ceased.
- Many 152s sell for 3 to 4 times their original sale price, even after inflation adjustments.
