PPL flight training in a Cessna 152 vs 172

[GoCanucks]

Hello all, very first post, so first some background. Just started my PPL training at the Victoria Flying Club, and have the option of flying in a Cessna 152 or 172. I had originally picked the 152 for my first flight simply due to cost. During our pre-flight my trainer asks if I've considered the 172, primarily because most of the training occurs over the Cowichan Valley which the 172 can fly to faster obviously and basically it can perform more manoeuvres in less time such as circuits.

Also, I'm a skinny guy, fitting in a 152 is not an issue and it seemed comfortable enough. I get that when I'm building hours later on a slower plane will get me more hours flying to the same destination. So, pros and cons? Advice appreciated, thanks!

[ahramin]

It really doesn't matter. Learning to fly is going to be the same on either one. Heck, your training will be at least 45 hours: fly both.

[Beefitarian]

Less expensive? If I were 100lbs lighter sign me up.

[modi13]

The speed really doesn't matter - a couple of extra minutes won't make a big difference, and it will probably balance out during various manoeuvres - but the extra costs add up pretty quickly. $15/hour over 45 hours, plus GST, adds up to some pretty substantial savings. The 152 is light and easy to handle too, which is nice for things like stalls and steep turns. Once you're licenced and flying cross-country, though, don't even consider taking a 152, both for payload and comfort; one flight through the Fraser Canyon in the summer and the savings will be balanced out by the cost of buying new pants.

[Beefitarian]

$15/hour over 45 hours, plus GST, adds up to some pretty substantial savings.

I get just over $708, you could buy several more hours with that coin.

[Big Pistons Forever]

The C 152 is a better trainer IMO. It is lower powered so less than optimal technique is more noticeable on takeoff and climb. It also has more adverse yaw and is a bit less stable. It is easy to fly but surprising hard to fly really well so it will make you a better pilot if you put the effort into flying accurately

[Grantmac]

1+ on the 152. I did my PPL on 172s as they were all that was available, but most of my post PPL time flown at VFC was in the 152.
The 152 definitely rewards a lighter touch, as much as any spam-can Cessna will at least

-Grant

[BigglesNBella]

152 vs 172? Not going to be much difference if you ask me. Have you considered other FTU's on the field? IPFA has Katanas (or at least had them last time I was there).

www.ipfa.ca

[CpnCrunch]

If you can fit comfortably in the 152 then train in it and save yourself some money. Once you get your license you can then rent 172s. It's trivial converting from the 152 to 172.

[akoch]

I tried to learn on a 152 and 172. It pretty much put me off of flying altogether - sloppy controls, antiquated systems, handling reminiscent of a run down pickup truck (sorry, no offence meant, this is a "newcomer's" first impression) I am glad I tried a Katana just for its looks. Have been hooked ever since.

[GoCanucks]

Thank you all for the quick replies. Think I'll stick with my initial choice and train in the 152. Cheers.

[BigglesNBella]

Good luck with your training!

[Mr Ed]

I tried to learn on a 152 and 172. It pretty much put me off of flying altogether - sloppy controls, antiquated systems, handling reminiscent of a run down pickup truck (sorry, no offence meant, this is a "newcomer's" first impression) I am glad I tried a Katana just for its looks. Have been hooked ever since.

Welcome to sloppy maintenance. The C152 with tight controls is a joy to fly. Loose control hinges, sloppy rod ends, dangling control lines make for sloppy handling. The 152 does teach better - spins faster and will make you a better pilot 'cause its a bit more demanding. Make you work at landings. You can (with plenty of practice) land them in 20k xwinds - good rudder on it too. On the other hand, Katanas are newer...

[Les Habitants]

172 is like flying a bus, 152 is like flying a feather.

That's all i am offering you, since you are a Canucks fan....

lol, just kidding! Good luck with your training!

[akoch]

I tried to learn on a 152 and 172. It pretty much put me off of flying altogether - sloppy controls, antiquated systems, handling reminiscent of a run down pickup truck (sorry, no offence meant, this is a "newcomer's" first impression) I am glad I tried a Katana just for its looks. Have been hooked ever since.

Welcome to sloppy maintenance. The C152 with tight controls is a joy to fly. Loose control hinges, sloppy rod ends, dangling control lines make for sloppy handling. The 152 does teach better - spins faster and will make you a better pilot 'cause its a bit more demanding. Make you work at landings. You can (with plenty of practice) land them in 20k xwinds - good rudder on it too. On the other hand, Katanas are newer...

I think it also comes down to which airplane(s) you plan on flying once you got your license.

BTW, 20-25k xwind landings - really fun. I did not spin a 152, but the Diamond DA20s spins really well, also staying in true spin.