Aircraft overview

The Cessna 120 is a two-seat, high-wing tailwheel aircraft built by Cessna in Wichita, Kansas, with production running from 1946 to 1948. It was introduced alongside the Cessna 140 as a simpler, lower-cost personal aircraft for the postwar general aviation market. The Cessna 120 is specifically the more basic model: it was delivered without flaps and generally with less equipment than the 140. Its importance today is as an economical vintage trainer, local touring aircraft and ownership entry point for pilots comfortable with conventional landing gear.

Performance & specifications

Typical Cessna 120 performance is modest and well suited to short personal flights rather than fast cross-country travel. Most aircraft were powered by an 85 hp Continental C-85 four-cylinder engine, although engine upgrades are common in the fleet. Typical cruise speed is about 90 knots, depending on propeller, engine condition, loading and rigging. Practical range is commonly around 350 nautical miles with reserves. The aircraft has a published service ceiling of about 15,500 feet and a maximum gross weight of 1,450 lb. Useful load varies by equipment and modifications, but many examples fall near the 500 to 550 lb range.

Cabin & avionics

The cabin seats two side by side, with a simple panel, control yokes and limited baggage space. Buyers should expect a compact vintage cockpit rather than modern cabin width or noise insulation. The Cessna 120 was originally a day VFR aircraft with minimal electrical equipment, and many examples have been upgraded over decades. Typical panels may include basic analog flight instruments, a VHF comm radio, transponder, ADS-B Out, intercom and sometimes a panel-mounted or portable GPS. Modern integrated suites such as Garmin G1000 or Garmin Perspective are not typical for this model.

Buying & value

Condition and documentation matter more than equipment count. Prebuy attention should focus on fabric wing condition, corrosion in the steel and aluminum structure, landing gear attach areas, tailwheel components, control cables, fuel system condition and engine history. Many aircraft have metalized wings, electrical system additions, shoulder harnesses, improved brakes, alternator conversions or Continental C-90 and O-200 engine installations. These upgrades can improve usability, but they should be checked for proper approval and weight-and-balance impact. In the used market, the Cessna 120 usually sits below comparable Cessna 140 prices because of its simpler original specification and lack of flaps, while still offering much of the same vintage Cessna handling character.