Renting a Cessna 172: what to expect

The Cessna 172 Skyhawk is the most produced aircraft in history, with over 44,000 built since 1956. If you're a licensed pilot looking to rent an aircraft, the C172 is the most likely starting point.

What licence do you need?

A valid PPL (Private Pilot Licence) with an SEP (Single Engine Piston) rating is the minimum requirement. You'll also need:

• A current Class 2 medical certificate
• Minimum hours on type (typically 10–20 hours on the C172 specifically)
• A current BFR (Biennial Flight Review) within the last 24 months

Some owners or clubs require a checkout flight with a club instructor before solo rental, even for licensed pilots. This is standard practice and takes 1–2 hours.

What does it cost?

Wet rental (fuel included) typically runs €90–€140/hour depending on:

• Location (UK and Western Europe tend to be higher; Eastern Europe lower)
• Club vs. private owner
• Aircraft age and avionics fit
• Engine hours since overhaul (newer engine = higher rate)

Dry rental (fuel extra) is less common but available at some clubs. AVGAS currently costs €2.50–€3.50/litre in Europe; the C172 burns about 35 litres/hour.

What versions will you find?

The C172 has been in continuous production through multiple variants:

• **172R/172S (1996–present):** Most common modern version. 180hp Lycoming IO-360. G1000 glass cockpit on later S models.
• **172P (1981–1986):** Very common rental aircraft. 160hp. Round-dial analog instruments.
• **172N/172M (1970s):** Older aircraft, lower rental rates, more likely to be worn. 150–160hp.

For a first rental, aim for a well-maintained 172P or later. Avoid very high engine hours (check where it is in the TBO cycle).

How to find one on AvioSharing

AvioSharing's aircraft rental feature lists C172s from aero clubs and private owners worldwide. Search by:

• Base airport (ICAO code or city)
• Availability dates
• Hourly rate
• Aircraft age and avionics

Filter by type designator C172 to see only Cessna 172s.

Tips for your first rental

Book the aircraft, not just the instructor slot. Many first-time renters don't realise that a checkout at Club A doesn't automatically qualify them at Club B. Each club or owner runs their own checkout.

Check the aircraft's maintenance records. You're PIC, so you have the right to inspect the tech log before flight. An airworthy aircraft will have current Annual Inspection (or 100-hour for commercial use), transponder cert, and ELT battery.

Brief the emergency procedures thoroughly. Know where the fuel shutoff is. Know the fire drill. Know what to do on engine failure on departure. A few minutes in the hangar before your first flight in a new aircraft is time well spent.