Cessna 172RG Cutlass
Last updated: 2026-04-21
The Cessna 172RG Cutlass is the complex-aircraft variant of the iconic 172, equipped with a retractable tricycle undercarriage and a variable-pitch constant-speed propeller, used primarily for CPL(A) complex aircraft requirements. It is a workhorse of European EASA general-aviation training fleets, used at both DTO and ATO operators for hour-building and rating progression. undefined
What is the Cessna 172RG Cutlass used for in flight training?
EASA CPL(A) training requires complex aircraft time, and the 172RG offers a familiar airframe with added gear and propeller complexity. Students already comfortable in the standard 172 transition to the RG focusing on gear-up/gear-down checks, propeller lever management, and the additional speeds associated with a retractable platform. The risk of gear-up landings teaches vital discipline around pre-landing checklists. The 172RG is an efficient way to accumulate the complex aircraft hours required under EASA FCL for CPL and IR skill tests.