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Why a Cessna 150 or 152?
Primary training is planned in a simple two-seat trainer, which can help keep the cost of learning to fly down.
A trainer built for learning
The Cessna 150 and its later version, the 152, are small, high-wing, two-seat airplanes that have been used to train pilots for decades. They are simple to operate, so you spend your attention on learning to fly rather than managing complicated systems.
Why it can lower the cost of primary training
A Cessna 150 or 152 typically costs less per hour to rent and burns less fuel than a four-seat Cessna 172. Airplane rental is one of the biggest parts of what learning to fly costs, so a lower hourly rate can add up over the course of training. See what drives the cost.
| Cessna 150 / 152 | Cessna 172 | |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | Two | Four |
| Rental cost per hour | Typically lower | Typically higher |
| Fuel burn | Typically less | Typically more |
| Cabin and load | Snug; the weight of two people plus fuel must fit within tighter limits | Roomier, with more capacity for people and bags |
| Good fit for | Discovery flights, private pilot training, flight reviews | Carrying passengers, longer trips, and some advanced training when properly equipped |
Honest trade-offs
- Weight limits. With two people on board, fuel and baggage have to be planned carefully. You may be asked your approximate weight so each flight stays within limits.
- Space. The cabin is snug, especially for taller or broad-shouldered people. A discovery flight is a good way to find out how it fits you.
- Speed. These trainers are slower than larger airplanes, which matters more on long trips than in training.
- No passengers along. With only two seats, friends and family can't ride along during lessons.
What about advanced training?
The Cessna 152 is for private pilot training. Instrument training, IPCs, and commercial training are planned in a Cessna 172 with advanced avionics, which is properly equipped for that kind of flying. For the part of commercial training that requires a complex or technically advanced airplane, the airplane will be confirmed to meet the FAA definition.
Illustration only, not the actual airplane.
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