About the CESSNA 120
The Cessna 120, along with its sibling the Cessna 140, is an iconic aircraft in the history of general aviation. These aircraft were designed and built by the Cessna Aircraft Company, with production commencing shortly after World War II, in the year 1946. The Cessna 120 was introduced as a more economically priced variant of the Cessna 140, aimed at pilots and flying enthusiasts who were seeking a reliable, yet affordable, general aviation aircraft suitable for training and personal use.
The Cessna 120 was produced until 1949, with approximately 2,000 units built. This aircraft played an instrumental role in rejuvenating the civilian aviation market in the post-war era. The immediate post-war period saw a surge in demand for civilian aircraft as wartime restrictions lifted and people yearned for personal and recreational flying experiences.
Key Features and Capabilities
From a design perspective, the Cessna 120 is a single-engine, two-seat, high-wing monoplane. One of the key features that differentiated the 120 from the 140 was the absence of wing flaps, which made the 120 slightly less expensive to manufacture and purchase. It also featured less elaborate interior fittings and lacked an electrical system that was present in the 140. The aircraft was constructed with a mix of metal and fabric covering, which contributed to a lighter and more simplistic design.
The Cessna 120 occupies an important niche in aviation history, serving as an entry-level aircraft that balanced cost, performance, and ease of use. It became a beloved trainer aircraft due to its stable and forgiving flight characteristics, which made it ideal for novice pilots. The aircraft’s simplicity and robustness ensured that it could withstand the rigors of flight training and recreational flying.
Market Position and Use Cases
In essence, the Cessna 120, with its focused design and economical appeal, carved out an important segment in the general aviation market. Its legacy lives on as many of these aircraft are still in operation today, cherished by aviation enthusiasts and collectors for their historical value and enduring charm.