1973 Cessna C-150L (N7021G)
In late 1958, Cessna announced the specifications for a new trainer / commuter airplane they called the Cessna 150. This two-place, high-wing, all-metal, single-engine airplane incorporated tricycle landing gear and a 100hp four cylinder Continental O-200-A engine. Three versions were available, the Standard at $6995, the Trainer at $7,940 and the Commuter at $8,545. Three colors were available, forest Green, Damask Red, and Colonial Blue.
Modifications were made each year until production of the 150 was halted and production of the Cessna 152 was introduced. The Aerobat model, with a very distinctive paint scheme was introduced in 1970 and was continued through 1977. The Aerobat was a beefed up version that met requirements for aerobatic maneuvers of 6 Gs Positive and 3 Gs Negative load. In 1967 float models were put into production, but not many were produced.
Total US production was 22,082. The year with the most planes produced was 1966 at 3087. The recommended cruising speed was stated at 121 mph but that seems rather optimistic. Gross weight was increased from 1500 lbs to 1600 lbs in 1964.
The real success for the Cessna 150 is its usefulness as a trainer. It seems most everybody learned to fly in a Cessna 150. They are such an easy plane to fly and are a forgiving airplane if there ever was one. Although many were sold to individuals; it is rare to find someone that uses it as a commuter. Mostly it’s a great airplane to get in and go flying. For the person that wants an economical airplane the Cessna 150 just cannot be beat. The plane is tough so maintenance costs are low and insurance is reasonable. The biggest plus of all is the Cessna 150 has a very good safety record and is rated as one of the safest airplanes produced.
The plane lends itself to the latest technological innovations. Radios and navigation equipment have changed considerably over the years and this plane continues to be easily modified to accommodate innovations to make flying easier and safer.
In 1973 Cessna produced 1,460 150L models. In all, 4,518 “L” models were produced from 1971 to 1974. Cessna lowered the seats in the ’73 models to give the occupants more headroom.
Our Cessna 150 is a 1973 model. It was donated to the Connecticut Air & Space Center in 2001 for display.
From the prior owner:
“I got into flying a bit late in life, getting my private ticket at age 43 in 1990. (My dad worked at Chance Vought on the F4U Corsair, and later retired from Sikorsky Aircraft). Bought N7021G the following year for $13,500 and added $5,000 worth of better avionics. Paid about $9,000 for an overhaul at Mattituck Aviation in Long Island New York a few years ago. I loved flying the plane, except in turbulence. When I purchased a 172 I donated N7021G to The Connecticut Air & Space Center in Stratford, CT, so kids can sit inside and play with the controls.
I know it’s kind of a sin to take a perfectly operating airplane out of circulation – but hopefully it will inspire some kids to get into aviation. I sold the engine and radios, and had a repair shop at the airport donate some time to add weight to the nose to balance it again and attach the prop. We may add an intercom so kids sitting inside can imagine talking to air traffic control.”