California Aeronautical University expands flight training fleet with 15 Cessna Skyhawk aircraft

WICHITA, KS (March 18, 2024) — Textron Aviation today announced an agreement with California Aeronautical University for the purchase of 15 Cessna Skyhawk aircraft with deliveries beginning in 2027. The new aircraft will be added to their current fleet and will be used at the various Western United States locations including Bakersfield, CA, San Diego, CA, Ventura, CA and Mesa, AZ.  

The Cessna Skyhawk is designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company.      

“For more than six decades, the Skyhawk has been at the forefront of innovation, empowering aspiring pilots and setting new standards in flight training,” said Chris Crow, vice president, Piston Sales. “We are delighted to continue inspiring the journey of flight by providing California Aeronautical University students access to the most produced single-engine aircraft globally.” 

California Aeronautical University’s existing fleet of Textron Aviation aircraft includes Cessna Skyhawks and Beechcraft Barons. The additional aircraft will offer more resources expected to be needed with continued growth and help maintain an optimal student-to-aircraft ratio at the University, enabling students to begin flying in their first term and maintaining consistent aircraft availability throughout the entire duration of their training. 

“We couldn't be more thrilled to announce this acquisition of Cessna Skyhawks, which marks a significant milestone in our commitment to providing top-tier aviation education,” said Matthew Johnston, President of California Aeronautical University. “These new aircraft will help elevate our flight training degree programs, ensuring our students receive the best possible learning experience and preparing them for successful careers in the aviation industry.” 

About the Cessna Skyhawk   

The Cessna Skyhawk is considered the aircraft of choice for pilot training, and it is the most popular single-engine aircraft in aviation history. Since the aircraft first took flight in 1955, more than 45,000 Cessna 172 aircraft have been delivered to customers around the world — more than any other aircraft in the industry. The single-engine four-seat, high-wing Skyhawk is renowned for offering the best combination of modern features, including the Garmin G1000 NXi avionics with wireless connectivity, a standard angle-of-attack display system, and proven dependability. The aircraft also features McCauley's aluminum fixed pitch propeller, providing greater reliability and operating time and a Lycoming IO-360-L2A engine with 180 horsepower. 

California Aeronautical University (CAU) is preparing the next generation of aviation professionals. Serving students from all over the country, the University offers career-focused programs in aviation, aviation business, and aircraft maintenance. With on-airport locations throughout California and in Arizona that provide an ideal learning environment, CAU courses are delivered in a year-round, fast-paced schedule that enables students to enter the pipeline for aviation careers in the shortest amount of time. Through the University’s strong partnerships with airlines, influential aviation organizations, and leaders in the aviation community, CAU graduates become a part of a larger aviation network and reap the benefits of these relationships, including direct access to several airline cadet programs. The University offers access to federal student financial aid, scholarships, and veteran benefits to those who qualify.