Find aircraft background, systems descriptions and manuals for the aircraft you are researching. Each note keeps its source and version context close by.
Simulator manuals describe the developer’s implementation. Aircraft background is research-based; pilot accounts describe an individual’s experience. Coverage here is limited to the selected notes and linked resources, not the full contents of every manual.
Cessna 152 / Aerobat
The 152 developed from Cessna's earlier 150, retaining the compact side-by-side cabin and simple high-wing layout. It became a familiar aircraft at flying schools and clubs. The Aerobat branch added equipment and structural provisions for aerobatic use.
Its smaller cabin distinguishes it from the four-seat 172 even when the family styling looks similar. Simulator versions also differ in panel layout and configuration, so the standard 152 and Aerobat are identified individually below.
Aircraft / family
172 Skyhawk (G1000) · Microsoft Flight Simulator · MSFS 2024
Microsoft Flight Simulator aircraft manuals
172 Skyhawk · Microsoft Flight Simulator · MSFS 2024
Microsoft Flight Simulator aircraft manuals
Cessna 172 Skyhawk (G1000) · Microsoft Flight Simulator · MSFS 2020
Microsoft Flight Simulator aircraft manuals
Cessna 172 Skyhawk · Microsoft Flight Simulator · MSFS 2020
Microsoft Flight Simulator aircraft manuals
Cessna 172 SP · Laminar Research · X-Plane 12
The bundled X-Plane Skyhawk has its own cockpit reference
Laminar's manual documents the C172's primary controls, trim console, instruments and autopilot. Its illustrated cockpit guide and configuration checks describe the bundled aircraft. They do not establish the maintenance systems or custom avionics offered by independent C172 developers.
Archived simulator manual; installed package revision not observed · PDF pp.7-8,45; center console and preflight
Cessna 172 SP · Laminar Research · X-Plane 11
The bundled X-Plane Skyhawk has its own cockpit reference
Laminar's manual documents the C172's primary controls, trim console, instruments and autopilot. Its illustrated cockpit guide and configuration checks describe the bundled aircraft. They do not establish the maintenance systems or custom avionics offered by independent C172 developers.
Archived simulator manual; installed package revision not observed · PDF pp.7-8,45; center console and preflight
Cessna 172 Skyhawk · Airfoillabs · Airfoillabs · X-Plane 12
An aircraft with persistent mechanical condition
Airfoillabs describes per-cylinder engine simulation, a custom electrical system and persistent wear in its C172 NG. The published features include tyres, brakes and structural damage, alongside an interactive walkaround and preserved aircraft state. The result is a different product scope from simply selecting a conventional or glass instrument panel; those are developer-described capabilities, not an independent fidelity rating.
C172 NG Digital 1.6.2; XP12 · Flight model; electrical; engine/fuel/gear; versions
Cessna 172 Skyhawk
The Skyhawk developed from the tailwheel Cessna 170, adopting tricycle landing gear. The first 172 flew in 1955. Its combination of a practical cabin, fixed undercarriage and straightforward layout helped make it a familiar aircraft for personal flying and instruction.
The 172's long history includes different engines, panels and equipment. That variety is especially visible in simulation: a conventional-instrument aircraft, a G1000-equipped version and an add-on with persistent maintenance systems offer different experiences despite sharing the same basic silhouette.
Aircraft / family
Cessna 172: Everyman’s Airplane
AOPA Pilot, May 1992: a retrospective on the real Skyhawk.
Cessna 185F · Microsoft Flight Simulator · MSFS 2024
Microsoft Flight Simulator aircraft manuals
Cessna 185F
The Skywagon is a six-seat member of Cessna's utility-aircraft line. Its fixed conventional undercarriage distinguishes it from the tricycle-gear Stationair family. The prototype flew in 1960, with production aircraft following in 1961.
Floats and skis expanded the uses of an aircraft already suited to carrying people and supplies. The 185F in the catalogue is a particular development of the design; its developer's package determines which undercarriages, avionics and other options are available in the simulator.
Aircraft / family
