Cessna 172 vs PA28
Had a search for the above comparisons but for some reason the PPRUNE search engine doesn't like "172" (it says it's too short!) so thought I'd ask directly.
Had a familiarization flight in a PA28-160 with an instructor yesterday as I have grown out of our club 152's (too slow, not enough seats, cramped etc).
The club has a few PA28's and one 172. I liked flying the PA28 - solid and stable albeit with rather stodgy handling compared to the 152 but I guess this is down to its weight and size. Visibility for nav wasn't as bad as I thought it may be although obviously a high wing would help with passengers who want to take pictures/enjoy the views. I wasn't that impressed with fuel consumption on the PA28 - at "VFR" altitudes it will apparently return 9 US gal an hour @ 2200rpm / 95 kts cruise.
I have another flight in the PA28 next week to do some upper air work before being signed off on it but I am wondering whether I should instead switch to getting checked out on the club Cessna 172?
Can anyone current on both the PA28 and 172 offer me a balanced opinion on the pro's and con's of both aircraft before I decide which one to use for UK (and some euro) touring with 2/3 passengers?
Which is the better short-field performer?
Is fuel consumption better on the 172?
Which one has better load carrying ability?
Thanks in advance
PS If anyone has a link to a similar discussion on here please let me know and I'll go check it out!
Last edited by SQUAWKIDENT; 3rd August 2007 at 12:20.