AIRPLANE AVAILABILITY

Low time Cessna 172R - Updated to S-Model Glass equivalent

Modernized with new 180 HP Engine + Garmin G3X Touch Avionics

This 1999 Cessna 172R has been comprehensively upgraded to meet the performance and technology of new aircraft coming off the Cessna production line today. With just ~2,500 total airframe hours, this airframe has been meticulously modernized for the next generation of training and rental operations.

We pay for the engine overhaul. Below you’ll find more information on the aircraft and its upgrades for your review.

Performance & Power

• 180 HP Engine Upgrade (STC SA10406SC) — a complete zero-time overhauled powerplant providing enhanced climb performance and cruise speed compared to the standard 160 HP configuration.

• A new propeller

• Professionally installed engine removal and reinstallation, ensuring factory-quality precision and reliability.

• Same fuel burn as S model, as it was converted to S model equivalence. 

Avionics Suite – Garmin G3X Touch + GFC 500 Autopilot
This aircraft features the Garmin G3X Touch integrated glass cockpit — a system even more advanced and intuitive than the legacy G1000 found in most new Skyhawks. Pilots can fly using touchscreen or traditional knob-based control, ideal for transitioning students and instructors alike. The avionics suite includes:

• Dual G3X Touch displays

• Garmin GFC 500 digital autopilot 3 Servo: Pitch/Roll/Pitch Trim Cessna 172R

• ADS-B In and Out for full situational awareness and traffic/weather integration

• WAAS GPS and LPV approach capability, expanding IFR training opportunities

• G5 for Certificated Aircraft, Standard Kit (AI)

• Digital Fuel Senders

• GTN 650Xi Black GPS/NAV/COM System

• GTX 345 with installation kit and pilot's guide

G3X with GFC 500 Autopilot

While the G1000 NXi is a proven platform, the new Garmin G3X Touch paired with the GFC 500 autopilot offers a major advantage in day-to-day reliability and maintenance cost. The G3X system uses the latest generation of Garmin hardware—solid-state components, simplified wiring, and modular displays—which dramatically reduce downtime and service expenses compared to the proprietary, factory-integrated NXi units. In the field, avionics shops report that routine support and troubleshooting on G3X aircraft are faster and more economical because components can be individually replaced or updated without sending the entire suite to a Garmin service center.

The GFC 500 autopilot, built on the same digital architecture as the GFC 700, has proven exceptionally reliable and requires less maintenance calibration over time. Combined, the G3X and GFC 500 provide the same flight-director logic, ESP envelope protection, and coupled-approach capability your instructors and students already expect—but with lower long-term maintenance exposure and faster turnaround when issues arise. From a fleet management standpoint, that means more aircraft availability, less AOG risk, and a more predictable maintenance budget—while maintaining the same Garmin training environment your team is already comfortable with.

Early rental data from flight schools operating both G1000- and G3X-equipped aircraft shows that G3X models tend to fly more often, thanks to their superior display clarity, responsive touch interface, and overall ease of use for both instructors and students. Pilots also find that transitioning between the G1000 and G3X platforms is seamless, with nearly identical flight management logic and knob-based control options, minimizing additional training time and maximizing aircraft utilization.

LED Lighting and Electrical Enhancements

This aircraft features modern LED exterior lighting for taxi, landing, and pulsing recognition lights, significantly enhancing visibility and safety. The LED system also reduces maintenance needs by eliminating frequent incandescent bulb replacements and lowers electrical load on the system. In addition, upgraded shielded wiring minimizes radio interference and ensures clean magnetometer performance for precise navigation and avionics reliability.

Summary
This aircraft delivers the full capability of a brand-new Cessna — 180 HP performance, advanced Garmin avionics, and low-time reliability — all at an affordable cost versus new-aircraft. For flight schools or flying clubs, N7257E represents an exceptional opportunity to lease a premium, modernized trainer ready to generate consistent flight hours and pilot satisfaction.

Q3 2026:

Two- 2026 C-172S Skyhawks. Well equipped, new from Textron Aviation.

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