Cessna Announces Release of Diesel 172

Although avgas is expensive, there is no shortage in the U.S., and oil companies continue to support its production and distribution. Nonetheless, Cessna Aircraft has decided to outfit its best-selling 172 Skyhawk with a diesel engine. Starting in the middle of next year, Cessna dealers will sell the Skyhawk TD powered by a 155-hp Thielert turbocharged diesel engine installed under an FAA supplemental type certificate (STC).

Cessna officials expected the Skyhawk TD to sell better outside the U.S. because the prices of avgas are much higher. But since the Skyhawk TD was announced last month, domestic dealers are ordering them in larger numbers than expected.