A Cessna 172 typically weighs about 1,450 to 1,700 pounds empty , depending on the exact model and equipment. Its maximum gross weight is commonly around 2,550 to 2,558 pounds.

Quick Scoop

For a practical rule of thumb:

  • Empty weight: roughly 1,480 lb for many older aircraft, and up to about 1,680 lb for newer 172S versions.
  • Max takeoff/landing weight: about 2,550 lb on many versions, with some sources listing 2,558 lb maximum ramp weight.
  • Useful load: often around 800 to 960 lb, depending on configuration.

What it means

“Weigh ” can mean different things on an airplane. If you mean the aircraft with no people, fuel, or bags, that is the empty weight. If you mean the heaviest it can be loaded for flight, that is the maximum gross weight.

Example

A newer Cessna 172S may have:

  • Empty weight: 1,680 lb.
  • Maximum gross weight: 2,558 lb.
  • Payload with full fuel: about 560 lb.

If you want, I can also give you the weight in kilograms or break it down by a specific Cessna 172 model.