It's important to keep up flying while building, even though financial and time constraints can make that difficult. I'm building my Sling to fly it, and I don't want to be a rusty pilot when I'm done.

I flew the PA-28 Warrior II in Australia but haven't flown a C-172. The flying club I belong to has just leased one however, so it's the ideal time to get the type in my logbook.

My chariot awaits...
My chariot awaits...

The particular model is a 1978 C-172N, with a particularly attractive sheepskin interior.

Procedurally it is very similar to the -152, with slightly higher takeoff, climb and approach speeds. However more rudder is required particularly during takeoff and climb due to the more powerful 0-320 engine at 160HP compared with the 110HP 0-235 in the 152.

Flying with back passengers (which I hadn't done in the Warrior) was a good illustration of how CoG affects flight characteristics. With only a front-seat passenger, the 172 is nose-heavy and needs careful attention to attitude in the flare to prevent a nose-wheel landing. However with 4 on board it is more balanced on approach and a nice landing is easier, however climb speed is significantly lower, only just managing 500fpm at MAUW.

Departing NZPM 05 over the city, looking west over Port Taranaki.</br> Kaitake Ranges just visible through an inversion layer in the background.
Departing NZPM 05 over the city, looking west over Port Taranaki.
Kaitake Ranges just visible through an inversion layer in the background.