Weight and balance data
- Type certificate data sheet (TCDS)
- TCDS# 3A12 (FAA)
- Manufacturer
- Cessna Aircraft Company (Textron Aviation)
- Engines
- 1x Lycoming IO-360-L2A (180 HP)
- Maximum takeoff weight
- 2,550 lbs (1,157 kg)
- Reference empty weight
- 1,663 lbs (754 kg)
- Empty weight arm
- 41.0"
- CG limits
- 35.0" to 47.3" aft of datum
Loading stations and arms
| Station | Arm (in) | Maximum (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Pilot | 37.0 | — |
| Front passenger | 37.0 | — |
| Rear passenger 1 | 73.0 | — |
| Rear passenger 2 | 73.0 | — |
| Baggage area 1 | 95.0 | 120 |
| Baggage area 2 | 123.0 | 50 |
| Fuel | 48.0 | 318 |
CG envelope points
Envelope polygon vertices (arm in inches aft of datum, weight in pounds).
| Point | Arm (in) | Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 35.0 | 1,500 |
| 2 | 35.0 | 1,950 |
| 3 | 41.0 | 2,550 |
| 4 | 47.3 | 2,550 |
| 5 | 47.3 | 1,500 |
Data reliability and sources
Reliability:estimated reference values · Last verified: 2026-06-10
Sources:
- FAA TCDS 3A12 (Cessna 172 series)
- POH Cessna 172S (Sección 6, Weight & Balance) - referencia general
Pending verification:
- Peso vacío y brazo de la aeronave individual (obligatorio: W&B Report propio)
- Verificación de envolvente contra POH de la variante y año específicos
- Límites de equipaje combinado (máx 120 lbs entre áreas 1 y 2)
Empty weight and arm differ for every airframe: use the values from your aircraft's weight and balance report (you can add them as a custom aircraft in the calculator).
Frequently asked questions
How is the Cessna 172S Skyhawk weight and balance calculated?
Multiply each station's weight by its arm to get its moment, add up weights and moments (including the empty weight) and divide the total moment by the total weight to get the CG. The Cessna 172S Skyhawk is within limits when the weight does not exceed the maximum and the weight/CG point lies inside the envelope.
What is the maximum weight of the Cessna 172S Skyhawk?
The reference maximum takeoff weight of the Cessna 172S Skyhawk is 2,550 lbs (1,157 kg), per TCDS# 3A12 (FAA). Always confirm it in your aircraft's POH/AFM.
What are the CG limits of the Cessna 172S Skyhawk?
The Cessna 172S Skyhawk CG must be between 35.0" (forward limit) and 47.3" (aft limit) aft of datum. The effective limit depends on weight: the envelope on this page shows its full shape.
Can I use this calculator for my Cessna 172S Skyhawk?
Yes, as a reference. Every Cessna 172S Skyhawk has its own empty weight and arm depending on its equipment: enter them from its weight and balance report as a custom aircraft. The POH/AFM is always the official reference.