Herald Staff Report
The UND John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences has entered into a multi-year contract with Cessna Aircraft Co. and has placed an order for 25 Cessna 172 Skyhawks.
These aircraft will replace the Piper Warrior as the school's basic training aircraft.
"The first 20 years, UND used Cessna aircraft for our single engine trainer," Don Dubuque, director of Extension Programs, said in a press release. "Even the years that Cessna were not building training aircraft, they continued to support our students by providing internships and scholarships. It is exciting to once again see Cessna on the ramp."
"UND is a leader among collegiate flight schools," said John Doman, Cessna's vice president, propeller sales. "The 172 remains the world's most popular training aircraft due to its unique combination of safety, reliability and predictable flight characteristics. With the addition of the Mustang last year and now the 172s, we're pleased and proud that UND continues to choose Cessna as we work together to increase new pilot starts."
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Earlier this year, UND aerospace acquired a Cessna Citation Mustang, making the Odegard School the first collegiate flight program to have a Citation Mustang in its fleet. The entry-level Citation jet will be used for executive travel as well as flight training for undergraduate and contract students within the Odegard School.
Based on unit sales, Cessna Aircraft Company is the world's largest manufacturer of general aviation airplanes.
