Textron equips Skyhawk with dual ignition upgrade

The company has replaced the magneto system with electronic ignition during the 70th anniversary year of the Cessna 172 Skyhawk.

Textron Aviation has made dual electronic ignition standard on all new Cessna Skyhawk aircraft, replacing the older dual magneto system. The change brings solid-state components to the Lycoming engine, reducing internal moving parts and boosting performance.

The dual EIS setup increases fuel efficiency, extends maintenance intervals and reduces operating costs for owners. Chris Crow, vice president of Piston & Utility Sales at Textron Aviation, says: “The incorporation of the dual electronic ignition system demonstrates Textron Aviation’s continued commitment to our piston aircraft, including the legendary Cessna Skyhawk, by easing operations for customers.”

The change comes as the Cessna 172 Skyhawk marks its 70th anniversary, having first flown in June 1955. More than 45,000 units have since been delivered to customers in over 40 countries.

The Skyhawk is used widely in training thanks to its Garmin G1000 NXi avionics, angle-of-attack display, and features such as USB charging ports and upgraded seating. It runs on a Lycoming IO-360-L2A engine with 180 horsepower.