1ST year 1956 Cessna Straight tail! Updated panel, two AV 30s. Newer interior. This is a 4 place plane that you can actually fly 4 people in! All logs attached. Maintained by Jason Moellinger A&P IA. For contact information please send me a message. 2068 SMOH, 788 STOH

Manufacturer year

1956

Serial Number

29394

Registration Number

N7294A

Make/Model

CESSNA 172 STRAIGHT TAIL

Useful Load

858 lb

Airframe

Total Time:5068 Engine 1 Time:2061 SMOH White with red stripes, beautiful original straight tail cessna 172

Engine Details (e.g. Total Engine Time; Suggested TBO; Hours Remaining)

788 STOH

Interior/Exterior; Additional Equipment

updated interior in great condition

Aircraft Model Overview (Reference only)

The 1956 Cessna 172 Straight Tail represents the very beginning of what would become one of the most successful aircraft families in aviation history. Introduced in 1956 as an evolution of the tailwheel Cessna 170, the original 172 introduced tricycle landing gear, improved visibility, and easier ground handling—features that would revolutionize general aviation training and personal flying. The earliest 1956 models are commonly referred to as “straight tail” 172s, referring to the original vertical stabilizer design used before later swept-tail modifications were introduced. These aircraft retain many classic 1950s design characteristics, including clean lines, lightweight construction, and simple analog instrumentation. Powering the 1956 172 is the Continental O-300 engine, producing approximately 145 horsepower. While modest by modern standards, the aircraft’s relatively light weight and efficient high-wing design provide dependable performance for training, recreational flying, and short cross-country trips. Cruise speeds typically fall in the ~105–115 knot range. The aircraft features the classic high-wing configuration, offering excellent visibility, stable handling, and forgiving flight characteristics. Seating is arranged for four occupants, though useful load and cabin space are more modest compared to later 172 variants. The straightforward systems and predictable handling helped establish the aircraft as an ideal trainer. One of the defining qualities of the early straight-tail 172 is its light and responsive handling feel, which some pilots describe as more “classic” and connected compared to heavier later models. These early aircraft are also appreciated by vintage aircraft enthusiasts for preserving the original simplicity and charm of postwar general aviation. Within the aviation community, the 1956 straight-tail 172 is often regarded as a historic foundational aircraft—the starting point of a lineage that would go on to train hundreds of thousands of pilots worldwide. The 1956 Cessna 172 Straight Tail remains a beloved vintage aircraft today. Its combination of historical significance, simplicity, and approachable flying characteristics continues to attract pilots, collectors, and classic aircraft enthusiasts alike.