Cessna 172R Performance & Specifications

The maximum oil temperature for both the C-172R and C-172S is 245°F (118°C). This limit is established to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity. Exceeding this temperature can lead to engine overheating, reduced lubrication effectiveness, and potential engine damage. Maintaining oil temperature within this range is crucial for safe operation, as it helps ensure that the oil can effectively lubricate and cool engine components during flight.

The C-172R is equipped with a fixed-pitch propeller, which means the blade angle is set at a specific angle and cannot be changed during flight. This design simplifies operation and maintenance, making it ideal for training and general aviation. Fixed-pitch propellers provide good performance at a specific speed and are lighter and less complex than variable pitch or constant speed propellers, making them suitable for the C-172R's typical flight profile.

The aft center of gravity (CG) limit for the C-172R in the normal category is set at 47.3 inches aft of the datum to ensure safe flight characteristics. This limit helps maintain stability and control during various phases of flight, particularly during takeoff and landing. Exceeding this limit can lead to adverse handling qualities, including difficulty in controlling pitch and increased risk of stalling. Adhering to the specified CG limits is crucial for the aircraft's performance and safety.

In the Cessna 172R, the maximum combined weight capacity for baggage areas 1 and 2 is specified as 120 lbs. This limit ensures safe flight operations by preventing overloading, which can negatively affect aircraft performance, stability, and safety. Adhering to this weight capacity is crucial for maintaining the aircraft's balance and structural integrity during flight.

The maximum useful load of the C-172R in the normal category is determined by the aircraft's design specifications, which include the maximum takeoff weight minus the empty weight. For the C-172R, this value is set at 818 lbs, allowing for a combination of passengers, cargo, and fuel while ensuring safe operation within the aircraft's limits. This figure reflects the balance between performance, safety, and regulatory requirements for general aviation aircraft.

The load factor limit for the C-172R in the normal category indicates the aircraft's ability to withstand forces during maneuvers. The specified limits of +3.8g and -1.52g represent the maximum positive and negative loads the aircraft can safely endure without structural failure. Positive load factors occur during climbs and turns, while negative loads can happen during descents or turbulence. These limits ensure safe operation within the aircraft's design parameters, reflecting its stability and structural integrity during various flight conditions.

In a C-172R, the maximum speed for steep turns is 95 knots. This speed ensures that the aircraft remains within safe operational limits during the maneuver, allowing for adequate control and preventing the risk of stalling. Exceeding this speed can lead to increased load factors and may compromise the aircraft's stability and performance. Maintaining 95 knots during steep turns helps pilots manage the aircraft effectively while adhering to safety protocols.

The maximum oil pressure for the C-172R is 115 PSI, which is essential for ensuring the engine operates efficiently and safely. This pressure range helps maintain proper lubrication, preventing engine wear and overheating. Operating within this limit is crucial for optimal performance, as excessively low or high oil pressure can indicate potential issues, such as inadequate lubrication or mechanical failure. Adhering to the specified maximum ensures the longevity and reliability of the aircraft's engine during flight operations.

The Cessna 172R, a popular single-engine aircraft, has a maximum speed at sea level of 123 knots. This speed is influenced by various factors including engine performance, airframe design, and environmental conditions. Operating at this maximum speed allows for optimal performance in terms of fuel efficiency and range, making it suitable for training and recreational flying. The aircraft's specifications are based on standard atmospheric conditions, and pilots must consider these factors when planning flights to ensure safety and efficiency.

The Cessna 172R is designed for optimal performance and efficiency, which includes specific propeller dimensions. The maximum propeller diameter for this aircraft is 75 inches, allowing for effective thrust generation while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency. A larger diameter could lead to increased drag and potential performance issues, while a smaller diameter might not provide sufficient thrust for the aircraft's operational needs. Thus, 75 inches represents the ideal balance for the C-172R, ensuring it meets performance standards for takeoff, climb, and cruise.

The C-172R is equipped with a Lycoming IO-360-L2A engine, which is rated at 160 brake horsepower (BHP) at 2400 RPM. This rating reflects the engine's performance capabilities, providing sufficient power for the aircraft's operational requirements while maintaining efficiency. The 2400 RPM is the optimal engine speed for achieving this power output, ensuring reliable performance during various flight conditions.

The Cessna 172R is powered by the IO-360-L2A engine, which is a four-cylinder, horizontally opposed, fuel-injected engine known for its reliability and efficiency. This engine model is specifically designed to provide optimal performance for the C-172R, contributing to its reputation as a versatile training aircraft. With a maximum output of around 180 horsepower, the IO-360-L2A supports the aircraft's capabilities in various flight conditions, making it suitable for both training and recreational flying.

The Cessna 172R has a usable fuel capacity of 53 gallons, which is designed to optimize performance and range for the aircraft. This capacity allows for efficient fuel management during flight operations while ensuring that the aircraft adheres to safety and weight limitations. The fuel system is engineered to provide a reliable supply of fuel to the engine, making it suitable for both training and recreational flying. Understanding the fuel capacity is crucial for pilots to plan flights effectively and maintain operational safety.

The Cessna 172R has a total fuel capacity of 56 gallons, which is divided into two fuel tanks, each holding 28 gallons. This capacity allows for a sufficient range and endurance for general aviation flights, making the C-172R a popular choice among pilots for training and recreational flying. The design ensures that the aircraft can operate effectively while maintaining safety and performance standards.

The standard empty weight of the Cessna 172R is 1,639 lbs, which includes the airframe, engine, and necessary operating equipment without any payload or fuel. This weight is crucial for pilots to determine the aircraft's performance capabilities, such as takeoff distance, climb rate, and fuel efficiency. Understanding the standard empty weight helps ensure that the aircraft is loaded within its weight limits for safe operation.

The maximum ramp weight of the C-172R in the normal category is 2,457 lbs, which includes the aircraft's basic weight plus the allowable payload and fuel. This weight limit ensures safe operation and compliance with aviation regulations. Exceeding this weight can affect the aircraft's performance, stability, and safety during flight operations, making it crucial for pilots to adhere to these specifications.

The stall speed of an aircraft is the minimum speed at which it can maintain level flight without stalling. For the Cessna 172R, with flaps up and power off, the stall speed is typically around 51 knots calibrated airspeed (KCAS). This speed is crucial for pilots to understand, as it defines the boundary between controlled flight and a stall condition, emphasizing the importance of maintaining adequate airspeed during critical phases of flight, especially during takeoff and landing.

The takeoff ground roll distance for the C-172R is influenced by various factors such as aircraft weight, runway conditions, altitude, and temperature. Under standard conditions, the distance required for the C-172R to achieve lift-off is approximately 945 feet. This figure reflects optimal performance parameters, ensuring that the aircraft can safely take off within the specified distance, considering the necessary acceleration and lift-off speed. It is important for pilots to be aware of this distance for effective planning and safety during takeoff operations.

The service ceiling of an aircraft is the maximum altitude at which it can maintain a specified rate of climb, typically 100 feet per minute. For the Cessna 172R, this altitude is 13,500 feet. At this height, the aircraft's performance decreases due to thinner air, affecting engine efficiency and lift. The 13,500-foot limit ensures that pilots can operate effectively while still having a margin for safety and performance, making it a critical specification for flight planning and operations.

The Cessna 172R, a popular single-engine aircraft, has a rate of climb at sea level of approximately 720 feet per minute (fpm) under standard conditions. This figure reflects the aircraft's performance capabilities, influenced by factors such as engine power, weight, and environmental conditions. The 720 fpm rate allows for efficient ascent during takeoff, making it suitable for various flying operations, including training and general aviation. Understanding this performance metric is crucial for pilots in managing their climb during flight.