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Whether you're learning to fly, getting current, or just enjoying a ride, the aircraft we operate offer proven performance and reliability across a range of experience levels. Through partnerships with local flight schools and owners, we rent and fly a variety of classic Cessna aircraft—including the 150, 172, and 182—each offering a unique combination of capability, comfort, and flying characteristics. Below, you’ll find an overview of each aircraft type
Cessna 150
Welcome aboard the Cessna 150, a legendary training and recreational aircraft flown by tens of thousands of pilots around the world. Introduced in 1959, the Cessna 150 was specifically designed as a two-seat trainer aircraft, and it quickly earned a reputation for being simple, reliable, and forgiving—ideal qualities for student pilots. It remained in production until 1977, with over 23,000 units built, making it one of the most-produced light aircraft in history.
The 150 is a high-wing, tricycle-gear aircraft powered by a Continental O-200 engine producing 100 horsepower. It typically cruises around 90–100 knots (about 105–115 mph) and burns roughly 5 to 6 gallons of fuel per hour, making it incredibly fuel-efficient compared to larger aircraft. With a maximum takeoff weight of 1,600 pounds, it can carry two adults and some light baggage—perfect for short flights and scenic hops around the local area.
While modest in performance, the Cessna 150 is a stable and responsive aircraft. Its design includes manual flight controls, so you’ll feel directly connected to the aircraft's movements. The high wing not only improves downward visibility but also offers some protection during landings and taxiing. Though it lacks modern luxuries like an autopilot or in-flight entertainment, the 150's charm lies in its raw, hands-on flying experience—every control input has an immediate, tangible effect.
Fun fact: the Cessna 150’s wing struts and fixed landing gear make it incredibly rugged. In fact, many airframes are still flying today after 50+ years of use. There’s even a fully aerobatic version, the Cessna 150 Aerobat, designed to handle loops and rolls within limits—though most 150s are strictly for normal, non-aerobatic flight. Also, because of its small size and light weight, it can take off and land on surprisingly short runways—often under 1,200 feet.
Whether you’re tagging along for a quick joyride or considering flight training yourself, the Cessna 150 is a fantastic introduction to general aviation. Its simplicity, efficiency, and legacy have made it a favorite for generations of pilots—and it’s still just as much fun to fly today as it was 60 years ago.
Cessna 172
The Cessna 172 Skyhawk is one of the most iconic and widely flown aircraft in aviation history. Since its debut in 1956, over 44,000 units have been built, making it the most produced aircraft in the world. Known for its forgiving flight characteristics, excellent visibility, and reliable design, the 172 is a favorite for flight training, personal travel, and weekend leisure flights. Whether you're a first-time passenger or a student working toward your pilot certificate, you're in good hands with the Skyhawk.
The Cessna 172 is a four-seat, high-wing, single-engine airplane with a Lycoming O-320 or O-360 engine, depending on the variant, typically producing 150 to 180 horsepower. It cruises at around 115 knots (132 mph) and has a range of roughly 500 to 800 nautical miles, making it well-suited for cross-country flights as well as local training. The high-wing design gives it excellent ground clearance and makes boarding and visibility more passenger-friendly—especially for sightseeing.
For students, the 172 offers an ideal learning platform. Its handling is stable and predictable, with good control harmony and mild stall characteristics. Many models come equipped with dual flight controls and modern avionics, including Garmin G1000 glass cockpits in newer versions. You'll also find traditional analog gauges (often called "steam gauges") in older models, giving pilots exposure to both modern and legacy systems.
While not particularly fast or flashy, the 172’s strength is in its versatility and approachability. It’s just as comfortable doing pattern work with a new student as it is cruising across the state for a weekend trip. It can operate from relatively short runways and has a maximum takeoff weight of 2,300 to 2,550 pounds, depending on the model. That gives plenty of capacity for two or three passengers with baggage and fuel, or a solo student with an instructor.
Flying in a Cessna 172 is a perfect blend of simplicity and capability. It’s a workhorse that’s earned its reputation through decades of dependable service, and it's likely the aircraft that launched more aviation careers than any other. Whether you're training for your license or just enjoying a scenic flight, the Skyhawk delivers a safe, solid, and enjoyable experience every time.
Cessna 182
The Cessna 182 Skylane is a powerful and versatile step up from its smaller siblings, offering increased performance, payload, and long-range comfort. First introduced in 1956, the 182 quickly became a favorite among pilots looking for a more capable cross-country aircraft without moving into the complexity of twin engines. For students advancing in their training or passengers joining a longer flight, the Skylane offers both rugged utility and a smooth, refined flying experience.
The Cessna 182 is a four-seat, high-wing, single-engine airplane powered by a Continental O-470, O-520, or O-540 engine depending on the model, delivering between 230 and 260 horsepower. This power boost gives the Skylane a cruise speed of 135–145 knots (155–165 mph) and a typical range of 800–1,000 nautical miles with long-range tanks. Its maximum takeoff weight is generally around 3,100 pounds, allowing it to comfortably carry full fuel, passengers, and baggage with ease.
Unlike the smaller 150 or 172, the 182 comes standard with a constant-speed propeller, giving the pilot more precise control over engine power and efficiency. Many models also feature retractable gear (in the RG versions) or advanced avionics, including the Garmin G1000 suite in newer aircraft. While it requires more attention during takeoff and landing due to its heavier weight and higher approach speeds, the 182 remains stable, responsive, and confidence-inspiring in flight.
Passengers often appreciate the Skylane's roomier cabin and smoother ride, especially in rough air or at higher altitudes. Its robust powerplant and load-carrying ability make it a favorite among backcountry pilots and those who routinely operate from shorter, less improved airstrips. For instrument-rated pilots or those working toward their Instrument or Commercial certificates, the 182 is a capable and comfortable platform for serious cross-country and IFR work.
Whether you're flying for business, training, or adventure, the Cessna 182 offers an ideal balance of performance, reliability, and comfort. It’s a pilot’s airplane through and through, capable of handling real-world flying demands while still welcoming passengers with a smooth, steady ride and incredible views from above.
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