Can I train with a Cessna 152 or 172?

Question

I'm considering training to obtain my private pilot license. I'm 6'2" @ 210lbs. Am I too big for the 152? The difference for the 172 is +$50 a hour which adds up. Pros/cons of each. I don't care about bringing people along.

Answer 1

The empty weight of the 152 is 1,100 pounds, the max takeoff weight is 1,670. Add your weight and the standard FAA weight of 170 for the instructor, and you can carry full fuel if standard 26 gallon tanks are fitted, and be 21 pounds under gross weight. Or, you could have an instructor who weighs 191, and be at gross weight.
There will be no problem with center of gravity issues as it has a wide envelop and unless you drive from the baggage compartment you will have no problems. The inside is only 49" across, so your instructor must be a good buddy who you would like to ride shoulder to shoulder with.
The 172 is much larger inside and carries more weight and will be more comfortable. The main issue is with the cost difference.
Try both and see which you like best, and just work a little harder to come up with the cash if you like the 172 best.

Answer 2

If you want comfort, consider the 172. The 172 is a bit roomier and will leave plenty of room for you and your instructor. However a 152 will cost you less which is a big advantage. The 152 will certainly be able to support you if that what you are worried about. My flight instructor was a very large man, and the plane handled well with both of us in the cockpit, although it was rather chummy. Whichever one you chose, good luck to you.

Answer 3

I'm 6' and about 225lbs. I did my private license in the 150. Flat out, it did the job. Looking back, I hated it, since I'm now in either a C-172 or PA-23 250 Aztec, but it was $100 compared to $120. (per hour).

We had a big Jamaican guy Mike. He was about 6'4 or slightly more, and not sure on his weight, but I know he wasn't coming up short in that category. He still fit in the 150, but he folded like an acordian to get in and out. He eventually gave up and switched to the C-172's.

If you're concerned about cost, suck it up and hop in the 152. But definantly, the more comfortable choice is the 172.

Answer 4

confort wise the 172 is the best, price wise i think you should find a school that charges less to upgrade from a 152 to a 172. 50 bucks do add up! by the way im 6'2 also and 207lbs and i went with the 172, eventually you will carry people,might as well get aquainted with the aircraft you will be flying

Answer 5

I am the same size and weight and I used the 152 for some of my training. It's good for solo stuff but use the 172 for cross countries since you will be able to go faster and see more.

I've also squeezed into a Taylorcraft which is even smaller!

Answer 6

I did my primary training in a 152. The maximum payload with full fuel will be less than 400 pounds. Depending upon the weight of your instructor, you may have to takeoff with less than full fuel whenever flying dual. That can be a bit of a pain in the *&^%.

Answer 7

When flying dual, 172. after solo, get checked out in the 152 and do all of your solo time in it ......Save some $$

Answer 8

If you're thinking about the money, go with the C-152. Or C-150--it's cabin is wider.

Answer 9

210lbs.....Confer with the operating manual of the aircraft, check the CG. Is the Cessna a 152 or 150?

Answer 10

No problem, my instructor was taller than that. I would try to make it work. 50 dollars extra per hour is going to add up and after you solo you will be by yourself in there anyway and then it will be just right.