"Tina" wrote in message
...
Some SEL airplanes are not certified for spins. I assume the 172 isn't
in that group.

Hi Tina,

Depends on the 172. Most, but not all, C172's were certified in both the
Normal and the Utility categories. The Normal category does not require
spin recoveries for certification. If you spin an airplane in that
certification category you become an instant test pilot! :-) The Utility
category requires spins and spin recoveries for certification and aircraft
in the Utility category can be spun.

Many GA airplanes are certified in both categories, but the Utility category
has a more restrictive weight and balance limitation. Lower weight, and
more forward CG range.

The old straight tail Cessnas would spin nicely. Then they slanted the tail
back for cosmetic reasons and shot themselves in the foot aerodynamically.
Now the bulk of the rudder is in the shade of the stabilizer in a spin and
the airplanes do not enter well or spin as well. They may also not want to
pop out of a fully developed spin. Most failed spin attempts will result in
a high speed spiral and you can build excessive speed quickly and then must
be very careful pulling out of the resulting dive so that you do not
overstress the aircraft at a speed well above maneuvering speed.

Highflyer
Highflight Aviation Services
Pinckneyville Airport PJY