This 1964 Cessna 172F Skyhawk Is a Performance-Enhanced ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

An early 172 with a vintage paint scheme and upgraded engine can be the ideal personal aircraft for many pilots.

1964 Cessna 172F Skyhawk [Courtesy: Hiller Aviation Consulting]

Each day, the team at Aircraft For Sale picks an airplane that catches our attention because it is unique, represents a good deal, or has other interesting qualities. You can read Aircraft For Sale: Today’s Top Pick at FLYINGMag.com daily.

The Cessna 172 makes a lot of sense for pilots in the market for a reliable, economical personal aircraft that is versatile enough to handle short-field adventure jaunts as well as longer traditional cross-country trips. Its forgiving flight characteristics, ease of maintenance, and strong factory support make it among the easier aircraft to own.

In the case of today’s aircraft for sale, an owner could enjoy the added benefit of flying an antique airplane with a vintage polished-aluminum paint scheme that pegs it squarely in the 1960s. When other pilots see an aircraft like this, they tend to give it extra attention. “What year?” they might ask. While contemporary 172s do not tend to attract attention, a 60-year-old example is sure to turn heads and start conversations.

The extra power of this aircraft’s upgraded engine will ensure that it performs like no stock Skyhawk. As is the case with the rival Piper Cherokee, pilots tend to agree that the 180 hp version has the ideal balance of power and stability. 

This 1964 Skyhawk has 2,250 hours on the airframe and 400 hours on its  Lycoming O-360 engine, which was part of an Air Plains conversion, and on its Sensenich fixed-pitch propeller. The aircraft is equipped with a Gill battery installed in 2022 and has a useful load of 870 pounds.

The panel includes a Garmin 496 GPS, Bendix/King KX 175B nav/com, Bendix/King KT 76A transponder, Icom IC A200 VHF radio, Telex PT-300 push-to-talk switch, and Northstar Loran radio.

Pilots seeking the straightforward flying experience of a Cessna 172 with the added interest of owning an antique aircraft should consider this 1964 172F, which is available for $119,000 on AircraftForSale.

If you’re interested in financing, you can do so with FLYING Finance. Use its airplane loan calculator to calculate your estimated monthly payments. Or, to speak with an aviation finance specialist, visit flyingfinance.com.

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