Blog 34: Pre-Flight Inspection: Step-by-Step Walkaround for the Cessna 172R

Aalisha Sugur
Jul 9
2 min read

“A good flight starts with a great pre-flight—trust me, your plane will thank you for the extra attention.” — Aalisha, Student Pilot | Drone Certified | Future PPL | Aviation Blogger

As a student pilot, one of the very first and most important lessons I learned was that safe flying isn’t about what you do in the air alone; it starts on the ground. The pre-flight inspection is your opportunity to connect with your aircraft, detect any issues before they become problems, and develop a routine that builds confidence.

In this blog, I’ll take you through the meticulous step-by-step pre-flight walkaround for the Cessna 172R—a vital procedure that sets the tone for every successful flight.

Why Pre-Flight Inspection Matters

Verifies aircraft condition for safe flight
Ensures all control surfaces, fluids, and systems are functional
Helps you become familiar with the airplane, its quirks, and layout
Prevents accidents and costly repairs by detecting issues early

Step-by-Step Walkaround for the Cessna 172R

1. Check the Aircraft Documentation

Ensure airworthiness certificate, registration, operating handbook, and weight & balance info are onboard and up-to-date.

2. Inspect Fuel Tanks and Caps

Check fuel quantity visually with a dipstick or sight gauges.
Confirm fuel caps are secure and check for dirt or debris around caps.
Look for water contamination by draining small fuel samples from sumps.

3. Examine Exterior Surfaces

Wings, fuselage, and empennage for dents, corrosion, cracks, or loose rivets.
Control surfaces (ailerons, rudder, elevator) move freely without binding.

4. Check the Landing Gear

Tires for proper inflation, condition, and wear.
Wheel fairings for damage and secure attachment.
Brakes for obvious leaks or damage.

5. Inspect the Engine Area

Oil level check using dipstick—top off if necessary.
Check for oil or fuel leaks around the engine cowl.
Assess condition of propeller for nicks or cracks.
Examine static ports and openings to ensure they’re clear.

6. Lighting and Pitot-Static System

Ensure all exterior lights (navigation, landing, strobes) function.
Confirm pitot tube is unobstructed and covers are removed prior to flight.

7. Final Prep

Open and close all access panels securely.
Verify all loose items are secured inside the cockpit.
Review the pre-start checklist.

My Pre-Flight Routine Tip

Develop a logical flow that works for you and follow it consistently. I often talk through each step aloud during early training—it helps reinforce memory and builds thoroughness.

Final Thoughts: Inspection is Your First Flight Instrument

The walkaround might seem long at first, but it is your foundational habit for flight safety. The more you practice it, the more intuitive and quickest it becomes—like second nature.

Fly prepared, fly safe!

Aalisha - Student Pilot | Drone Certified | Future PPL | Aviation Blogger