How many passengers can a Cessna 172 typically carry?

The typical seating capacity of a Cessna 172 is four passengers, which includes one pilot and up to three additional passengers. This design makes the aircraft practical for personal use, flight training, and short trips. The configuration of the Cessna 172 generally features two front seats for the pilot and a co-pilot, along with a rear bench seat that comfortably accommodates up to three passengers.

The other choices suggest capacities that do not reflect the standard configurations found in Cessna 172 aircraft. For instance, indicating that it only carries two or three passengers significantly underestimates the utilization of space available in the aircraft. The choice of six passengers also exceeds the typical capacity, as it would require more space and weight allowance than the aircraft is designed to handle. Hence, the designated passenger capacity of four is both a reflection of its structural design and an industry standard for this aircraft model.