Cessna Cessna 172

11 Apr 2026 · © KiwiAviation1

A Cessna 172 (ZK-TUG) awaits its next flight in the New Zealand countryside, likely operating as a glider tow-plane or a whale watching aircraft

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Aircraft

Cessna 172 C172

Basic white/blue; no airline livery (private/utility)

ZX-TUG

Registration

Manufacturer

Cessna

Gear

iPhone 12 Pro

Achievements

Rare Bird, Vintage Voyager

2 badges earned

Location

Kaikoura Airport

KBZ/NZKI

-42.4250, 173.6050

Open map

Kaikoura Airport KBZ

Airport

Insights

Aviation History

The Piper PA-18 Super Cub is one of the most iconic tailwheel light aircraft, celebrated for its ruggedness, STOL (short takeoff/landing) performance, and common use for training, bush flying, glider towing, and agricultural spotting.

Fleet Rarity

The Super Cub is common among legacy light aircraft, but relatively few remain in continuous use as certified tow-planes.

Record Flights

Widely used for mountain and bush flying, and as a glider tow plane; no major world records but famed for remote operations.

Safety & Events

Many Super Cubs have operated for decades in challenging environments. Frequent involvement in both recreational and tow operations.

Future Outlook

Many PA-18s continue flying today, with restored or well-maintained airframes as prized possessions among enthusiasts.

Specifications

10.74 meters

Wingspan

6.88 meters

Length

740 kilometers

Range

170 kilometers per hour

Speed

2 passengers (tandem seating)

Capacity

793 kilograms

MTOW

2.11 meters

Height

N/A (piston engine, power rating: 112 kW / 150 hp)

Thrust

N/A (piston GA aircraft, not certified for ICAO Chapter 4/14)

Noise