Considering fuel capacity, how much total usable fuel does a Cessna 172 have?

The total usable fuel capacity of a Cessna 172 is 52 gallons. This capacity is crucial for flight planning, as it allows pilots to determine the duration of flight, weight and balance, and fuel consumption rates.

The Cessna 172 typically has a total fuel capacity of 56 gallons, but due to the design of the fuel system, including fuel bladders and the need to avoid fuel starvation during maneuvers, not all of this fuel is usable. Therefore, only 52 gallons are considered usable for flight purposes. This distinction helps ensure safety and efficient operation during various flight conditions, enabling pilots to plan routes and fuel stops accordingly.

Understanding the fuel capacity is essential for maintaining regulatory compliance and ensuring adequate fuel reserves for any unforeseen circumstances during a flight.