Cessna 120

Overview

The Cessna 120 is a two-seat, all-metal taildragger introduced in 1946 as a simplified, economical version of the Cessna 140. Lacking flaps and originally sold without an electrical system, it is a quintessential post-war “working man’s” airplane and a popular choice for tailwheel endorsements.

Key Features for GA Buyers

• Simplicity: No flaps and fewer systems mean less to maintain and lower insurance premiums for some operators.
• Efficiency: Burns roughly 4.5 to 5 gallons per hour, making it one of the most cost-effective vintage cross-country machines.
• Durability: The metal fuselage and spring-steel landing gear are exceptionally robust compared to the wood-and-fabric designs of the same era.

Trade-offs

• No Flaps: Requires proficiency in slips to a landing, especially in short-field scenarios or when coming in high.
• Payload: Like many two-seaters of the era, carrying full fuel (25 gallons) significantly eats into the useful load, often leaving room for only two moderate-sized adults.
• Vintage Limitations: Many lack starters and require hand-propping unless an aftermarket electrical system has been installed.

See Also

• Cessna 140
• Luscombe 8
• Piper Vagabond
• Aeronca Champ
• Taylorcraft B