This 1978 Cessna 172N Skyhawk Is a Straight-Float ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

1978 Cessna 172N Skyhawk [Courtesy: Gary Walsh]

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.

Today’s Top Pick is a 1978 Cessna 172N Skyhawk.

Many pilots have at least considered training for a seaplane rating and possibly finding the ideal aircraft for our intended missions, from fishing trips to family excursions on remote rivers and lakes. While the fantasy version of this daydream probably involves a deHavilland Beaver or turbine Otter, a Cessna 172 like this one seems like a more practical approach.

The aircraft for sale here is equipped with Baumann 2550 floats, which are known for light weight. Its engine was upgraded to 180 hp from the original 150 and would still be familiar and relatively easy to handle for any pilot who has flown or trained in 172s.

I know of several out-of-the-way places I would like to visit in an airplane like this. I am adding the seaplane rating to my to-do list for 2025.

This 172N has 6,123 hours on the airframe and 1,276 since overhaul on its 180 hp Lycoming O-360 engine. The engine upgrade was part of the Penn Yan conversion and includes a powerflow exhaust. The VFR panel features a standard six pack of gauges, a Garmin GNC 250XL GPS and a Bendix-King KX 155 nav/com radio.

Pilots who want a straightforward, utilitarian floatplane to expand their flying adventures to waterways should take a look at this 1978 Cessna 172N Skyhawk, which is available for $132,000 on AircraftForSale.

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