Cessna 172 Aeroplane Experiences

Information About the Cessna 172

Produced and designed by the Cessna Aircraft Company, and first flown in 1955, the Cessna 172 Skyhawk was the successor to the Cessna 170 from 1948.

Thanks to its enduring popularity and continued longevity in production since its inception (save for a brief hiatus in the 1980s), it is by some measure one of the most successful aircraft of any class in history - more 172s have been built than any other aircraft (more than 44,000 units as of time of writing in 2024).

In fact, it has outlasted many of its immediate rivals such as the Beechcraft Musketeer and the Grumman American AA-5, both of which have now ceased production. It also holds the world record for (refuelled) flight endurance, from December 1958 to February 1959 by Robert Timm and John Cook, in a round the world trip on the equator from what is now Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas.

Aeroplane Flying Lessons in the Cessna 172

Its remarkable responsiveness, handling and agility for a light aircraft is why the Cessna 172 Skyhawk continues to be incredibly popular, almost 70 years on from when it was first flown. In fact, it will come as no surprise to learn that for those looking to learn to fly, it is the aircraft most utilised for our Aeroplane Flying Lessons.

And in a four seater Cessna 172, you've got the opportunity to learn to fly under a CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) approved flying instructor on how to guide one of these incredible machines up off the runway and into the air, as you master the essential flying skills for the first time and get the plane up to altitude!

With your instructor beside you at the controls, you'll be learning under the very best as they offer their expert guidance and tutelage, as you steadily grow in confidence. And of course, your learning will count towards the hours you need to notch up in order to qualify for your PPL (Private Pilot's Licence).

Where Can I Learn To Fly in the Cessna 172?

Those based in and around Essex can learn to fly a Cessna 172 Skyhawk at North Weald Airfield, an airbase with a lot of historic links to usage in both World Wars, and located near the village of the same name, and the market town of Epping. It is easily accessible from London via the M25 and M11 motorways.

Currently, there are two session options available to book - a 30 minute or a 60 minute lesson. One of the very best flying schools not just in Essex but in the UK generally are based at the airfield, as it is a CAA Approved Training Organisation.

Your flying time on each session will last from brakes on to brakes off, and will give you maximum time behind the controls that will hopefully get your aviation career started with, well… flying colours!

How to Book a Cessna 172 Aeroplane Experience

With FlyDays, we have made it as easy as possible for you to book your next flying lesson or experience in a Cessna 172 aeroplane. All the experiences you see listed above can be booked directly through purchase of our open Gift Vouchers, that can be redeemed and used at a time and date to suit you best.

If you've got specific dates in mind, that's OK too. Our Cessna 172 Flying Lessons Calendar is regularly updated with all forthcoming event dates at airfields and aerodromes all across the UK - browse with our dedicated search filters and then it's as simple as buying a gift voucher for the date of your choice.