The Cessna 172 is the most produced airplane in history and the default four-seat trainer and rental. If you're pricing one in Los Angeles, the hourly number is only part of the cost. Here's what goes into it. You Fly LA doesn't operate a 172. We fly the two-seat Cessna 162 Skycatcher and the four-seat Piper Warrior, the 172's closest equivalent, both at our $179 standard trainer rate.
Wet Rate Vs Dry Rate
A wet rate includes fuel. A dry rate doesn't, so you pay for fuel on top. A 172 typically burns around 8 to 9 gallons an hour, so always convert a dry quote to wet before you compare. All You Fly LA rates are wet.
What Our Standard Trainers Cost
| Item | Rate At You Fly LA |
|---|---|
| Piper Warrior PA-28-161 (Four-Seat, Fixed Gear) | $179 per hour, wet |
| Cessna 162 Skycatcher (Two-Seat, High Wing) | $179 per hour, wet |
| Flight Instructor (Checkouts, Lessons, Flight Reviews) | $110 per hour |
| Typical Two-Hour Checkout | About $578 (aircraft plus instructor) |
The Piper Warrior is the 172's closest rival: four seats, fixed gear, a similar engine and similar speed. The main difference is the wing. The Warrior's is low, the Cessna's is high. Most pilots fly both, and a checkout covers the switch. See Aircraft Rental At Van Nuys for every rate.
The Costs Beyond The Hourly Rate
- Checkout: Every rental operator flies with you before handing over the keys. It's billed at aircraft plus instructor time.
- Flight review: Required every 24 calendar months under 14 CFR 61.56.
- Renter's insurance: Most operators require it. Ask what the policy covers.
- Minimum hours: Some operators charge a daily minimum on overnight trips.
- Club dues: If you rent through a flying club, add initiation and monthly dues. Our Flying Club Vs Flight School guide compares the two.
What You Need To Rent
A private pilot certificate (or higher), a current medical or BasicMed, a current flight review, renter's insurance, and a checkout in that make and model. Students rent as part of their training, with an instructor's endorsement.
Why Fleet Size Matters When You Rent
A low hourly rate doesn't help if the airplane is booked or down for maintenance. You Fly LA owns all 20 airplanes on our line and maintains them in our own shop at Van Nuys, so there's usually another trainer available when you want to fly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does It Cost To Rent A Cessna 172 Per Hour?
It depends on the airport, the airplane's avionics and whether fuel is included. You Fly LA doesn't rent the 172. Our four-seat Piper Warrior, the same class of airplane, and our two-seat Cessna 162 Skycatcher both rent for $179 per hour with fuel included.
Is A Piper Warrior Harder To Fly Than A Cessna 172?
No. They handle similarly and have similar performance. Most pilots need one checkout flight to switch.
Can I Rent A Plane Right After My Checkride?
Yes. Students who trained with us already know the airplanes, so the checkout is usually quick.