Really tall person in a C172/Cherokee?

Matthew K

Matthew K

Line Up and Wait
Joined
Sep 14, 2016
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788
Location
Georgia
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Broke Engineer
Hello all!

We all know how cramped the C172's and Cherokee 180s are for us "normal" height people, but can really tall people still fit relatively decently?

Specifically, a 6'7 tall person, weighing around 300lbs (former football player). I know a guy fitting these specifications and he wants to go up for a quick flight around the area. I'm happy to take him, but concerned about how well he'll fit. I think a C172 would be the best bet over the Cherokee due to its easier accessibility.

Anyone on here about 6'7 or flew someone about that height in one of these planes? How was your/their experience?
 
I am 6'4" and about 235/240 and I had no problem with any of the Cherokee derivatives I have owned, starting with a short body '61 Cherokee 160. No shortage of legroom to the rudder pedals and no shortage of headroom. However, newer models may have different interiors that might influence the latter.

I'll take the Cherokee over the 172 any day, but I think the ingress/egress with 2 doors is valid. However, 6'7" & 300# may be pushing it for either of those planes I suspect.
 
I’m 6’6” at 290. I fit in both just fine. They are both a pain in the arse to ingress and egress just in different ways. If the 172 doesn’t have the seats with height adjustment take the Cherokee.
 
Tarheelpilot said:
I’m 6’6” at 290. I fit in both just fine. They are both a pain in the arse to ingress and egress just in different ways. If the 172 doesn’t have the seats with height adjustment take the Cherokee.
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The 172 does have height adjustable seats. Good to hear from someone of similar height.
 
Just make sure to run the W&B numbers to make sure you aren't too far forward in CG. I know some C172 models can run up close to the forward limits with a couple of 250-300lbs guys up front.
 
SoonerAviator said:
Just make sure to run the W&B numbers to make sure you aren't too far forward in CG. I know some C172 models can run up close to the forward limits with a couple of 250-300lbs guys up front.
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Checked the W&B for the c172 skyhawk the flight school has, C.G. and weight is good to go(if I weighed 40lbs more we'd have a problem).
 
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