Reims Aviation F172

Single Piston

The Reims F172 is the French-built variant of the iconic Cessna 172 Skyhawk, manufactured under license by Reims Aviation (later Reims Cessna) in France from 1963 through the 1980s. While mechanically and aerodynamically identical to its American counterpart, the Reims models carried distinct type designations and were popular throughout Europe, particularly in flight training and private aviation. The partnership allowed Cessna to serve European markets more efficiently while meeting local content requirements, and Reims-built aircraft often featured minor equipment differences tailored to European operators. The F172 shares the Skyhawk's legendary reputation for docile handling, rugged construction, and forgiving flight characteristics that have made the 172 family the most-produced aircraft in history. Powered by a Lycoming O-320 engine producing 150 horsepower, the F172 cruises at approximately 122 knots and offers a range of around 640 nautical miles with reserves. Its high-wing configuration provides excellent visibility and stable slow-flight characteristics, with a stall speed of just 40 knots in landing configuration. The type remains a workhorse in European flight schools and flying clubs decades after production ceased. Reims Aviation also produced the F177RG Cardinal RG and other Cessna variants, but the F172 represented the bulk of French production. Today, Reims-built Skyhawks are distinguished by their D-registration (Germany) or F-registration (France) prefixes and remain valued for their solid construction and parts commonality with the global 172 fleet. SkyMeter has tracked 2 flights across 2 airframes and 1 operators, with distinct routes observed.