Cessna 150's vs 172

The 150 is usually cheaper, and if you're just boring holes.in the air and building time cheaper is good. watch the weight though. The 150 has a lighter load capability and if you and the instructor are.bigger guys you may be close to limits.

I have not completed my training because I treated it as an adhoc hobby. There's two types of training, one is more.structured and I would recommend that method

Personally I liked the 150(2) better, it felt lighter on the controls, but that's a personal preference for everyone. Fly both and see what you think

 

I'm learning in a 152 and I'm very happy with it. Nice simple plane, easy enough to get the hang of, not frightening when you do stall or spin training. Work load manageable for the student. Not exactly a Ferrari of the skies and not the prettiest plane but that's not a priority for me at the moment.

Rather than worrying about the differences between a 150 or 172, I would think that high wing vs low wing is a bigger decision. Ideally I would prefer low wing because of the improved visibility especially when making turns, but my flight school didn't have low wing types.

 

What Tillman says also goes for the 172 - easy to overload it with four large passengers.

I flew both when I was a student back in 1967-1968 and much preferred the 152 because of the lighter controls and better handling. There is an aerobatic version of the 152, but in my opinion it is hardly worth the name - better to learn this in a Decathlon.

 

It is mostly personal preference between training in a 150, 152, or 172.

Some things to consider for specific plane choices at a flight school are:
- panel equipment differences (VORs, radios, intercom, gauges, etc.)
- fuel injected vs. carbs, newer 172 R and S models are injected. Easier to start, no carb heat control, no primer control.
- which plane is more available for rental.
- cost per hour.
- does either plane have a built-in GPS?
- Autopilot? Even a crude one is good on cross country flights.
- your weight. If you are over 200 lbs, then a 172 allows you to go with even the larger instructors. In a 152, you might need to fly with the lighter instructors. This can be an issue when it is time to a stage check flight with an instructor other than your usual one.

Good luck and have fun.

 

How large or small you are makes a big difference. I'm 6'4", and while I can (and have) fit into a 150/152, the 172 is much more comfortable.

If money is not a factor, I'd do the 172.

 

I trained in both. I did basically everything up to my solo in a 152 and then transitioned into a 172 (with some 182 time thrown in as well). I preferred the 172. Once I made the switch, I couldn't go back. They are both incredibly easy planes to fly, but the 172 felt more stable.

As noted, the 152 will be cheaper to rent and it really does come down to preference. I say go with whatever you're more comfortable in.


Mark

 

I have flown both and much prefer the 172, especially if you are a bigger guy. Plus the smooth power of the larger engine and cabin comfort are great for longer cross country flights. I do like the 150 Aerobat for just putting around the sky though.