Cessna has confirmed plans to introduce a new version of the Skyhawk (Flight International, 18-24 March). The new Skyhawk SP will use the same Textron Lycoming IO-360-L2A as the 172R Skyhawk, but with a fuel injected engine certificated at 135kW (180shp) rather than at 120kW.
Improved aircraft performance is coupled with a 45kg useful load increase to 435kg, of a total gross weight of 1,160kg.
Preliminary performance figures at the gross weight include a cruise speed of 126kt (235km/h), a rate of climb at sea level of 730ft/min (4m/s) and a take-off ground roll of 960ft (290m).
Certification is expected by the end of June, with first deliveries beginning in the third quarter of this year.
The price of the standard Skyhawk SP is $149,000, compared to $133,700 for the 172R.
Source: Flight International
