Why flight schools are getting rid of C1

[JeffSKDTW]

Not that the 152's not a great plane. It's just....who can resist the big flashy blinky gadgets?

Not me. I did my private and instrument training in a 2003 172R....call me a sucka.

 

[U-I pilot]

i did most of my primary in 152's however during my training the FBO sold the 152's andnow uses all 172's. The P model was cheaper so thats what i flew. Went back to check on rental rates and the R's were 120/hr wet!!! Then when i humored them about asking about the checkout the instructor was 48/hour and it was a 2 hour checkout. I found a place on the same airport with older 172's (M model) going for 68/hr wet. Money much better spent i'd say. I cant believe what some people charge for not so updated equiptment.

 

[de727ups]

The mighty 152...

I'm starting a flight school with an A152 aerobat. Just got it decked out with an IFR approach approved Garmin 430. It will sell for $60/hr. I'm 160 lbs and find it's performance with someone my size to be just fine (2000 msl airport). Will use it for IFR training, too. Can see why some don't like it cause of it's size...or should I say, their size.... It's cheap to maintain and cheap to fly. Insurance was way more than it's worth....they wanted $4500 a year for a 30K hull and one mil liability. I opted for liability only, ($1650), since the plane is payed for, and will ask for renters insurance to solo (300/yr) unless you agree to pay for any damage you cause.

I wouldn't touch a new 172, since a late 70's model that is upgraded can do the same job. Some people just like new planes....that's fine if they want to pay the price.

 

[Dean]

For what its worth. I paid $80 for a wet plane and a good instructor while flying in a 1978 (i think) C172. The solo wet rate is $55. This rates are still current. If it would have been over a hundred, I guess i still would be wondering what flying was really like.

 

[JimNtexas]

The OMF Symphony and Liberty XL2 for around $140K seem like potentially great trainers compared to a $165k Skyhawk.