An introduction to available aircrafts for ab-initio Flight Training
As you get curious to learn flying an aeroplane, you may think what kind of aircraft you can be trained on for initial flight training. Initial training happens on small 2-4-seater aircraft that is powered by Single piston engine. These aircraft can fly up to 15000 feet and can have speed of around 160-180 kms per hour.
Commonly used aircrafts used for flight training are manufactured by companies like Cessna, Diamond, Piper, Cirrus, Technam and the like. There have been multiple models from these companies that are used for initial flight training. In India you will mostly find aircrafts from Cessna and Diamond for flight training. Most common flight training aircrafts in India are as below:
Cessna 152: First came into service around 1977 and production has been stopped around 1986. However, still lot of flight schools are using Cessna 152 for initial flight training. The aircraft is a two-seater and powered by a 110 hp engine. This aircraft is simple to fly and bear gross weight of 757 kgs. This aircraft is approved to fly in day, night and in Instrument flying conditions. The aircraft has an old look (conventional) cockpit with round shape instruments. In India per hour charges for flight training on this aircraft ranges between 8,500-11,000 INR.
Cessna Skyhawk (172): one of the most commonly used aircraft for training as well as for hobby flying. Cessna 172 was introduced in 1956 and still in production. It has gone through series of modification and technology advancement. Cessna 172 can seat up to 4 people and is usually powered by 160 or 180 bhp Engine. This aircraft has proved its worth being a successful trainer and fun to own aircraft. Gross weight for this aircraft is 1111Kg. Flight schools own old as well as newer versions of Cessna 172. Older versions have old style cockpit with round instruments whereas newer versions have screen displays also known as glass cockpit. Estimated hourly cost of flight training on one of these in India ranges from 10,000- 15,000 INR.
Diamond DA40: Diamond aircraft company originally belongs to Austria and came into existence in early 1980’s. They were initially producing motor gliders. Gradually they ventured into aeroplanes. DA 40 is made using latest technology like composite airframe, latest avionics and high performing engines. Diamond DA 40 is usually powered by 170-180 bhp engine. Gross weight for DA40 is 1157 Kgs. DA 40 has a 180-degree view canopy which allows you to enjoy unobstructed view. DA 40 offers glass cockpit. Estimated hourly cost of flight training on DA40 in India ranges between 16500-18500 INR.
In addition to the above, some flight training academies also have Technam P2010 and Thorp aircrafts. Cirrus Sr20/22 and Piper Archer (PA28) are popular training aircrafts globally. However, they are not present in India for training purposes.
OFLY objective is to disseminate fair and genuine information regarding Aviation. We do not represent any specific flight school. Author of this blog is an Indian Private Pilot and keen observer of Indian aviation market. He flies with multiple flying training schools of India. For consultation on Learn to Fly as hobby or profession. Book your appointment here or write to us info@jagaviation.in.