The airplane comes out of its annual inspection with fresh logbook entries and a few new parts, and the owner’s first flight afterward deserves extra care. Panels have been opened, cables adjusted, and components disconnected and reconnected.
A careful post-maintenance flight starts with a thorough preflight: controls moving in the correct direction, fuel and oil caps secure, inspection panels fastened, nothing left in the engine compartment. The 172 D and E are 1960s Skyhawk-family airplanes, and like any older airplane they get regular attention in the hangar.
Run the checklist slowly on that first flight. A model-specific checklist gives you the full sequence, and the maintenance records tell you what to look at twice.
Quick answer: CheckMate Cessna 172 DE Checklist is a model-specific cockpit checklist for pilots who fly the Cessna 172 D and E. It suits owners, renters and students flying the 172 D and E. It’s offered as the original CheckMate, CheckMate+, the personalized CheckMate Pro and QuickMate, with the CheckMate versions in Standard and Compact sizes. It supplements, not replaces, the airplane’s POH/AFM, so confirm it matches your aircraft’s exact model, year, engine and handbook before relying on it. It’s available on Skyfarer and at Skyfarer Shop.
Which version to choose
- CheckMate. The design that started it all, with the familiar legacy look, in Standard (6.5″ x 9″) or Compact (5″ x 7″) size.
- CheckMate+. Updated design language for better readability and safety, with passenger and crew briefing prompts, abort plan prompts and ATC communications prompts. It includes an instant low-res, black-and-white temporary digital download, and comes in Standard (6.5″ x 9″) or Compact (5″ x 7″) size.
- CheckMate Pro. A personalized version of CheckMate+. Add your tail number, name or phone number, your empty weight and useful load, and details for up to five airports you visit often. Typical production time is within 48 hours; Standard (6.5″ x 9″) or Compact (5″ x 7″) size.
- QuickMate. A 5″ x 7″ plastic card with an abbreviated checklist for pilots who prefer minimalism. It keeps only the most critical information but retains all the V-speeds and emergency procedures from CheckMate.
Before you fly with it
- Compare it with the POH/AFM. Read it side by side with your airplane’s handbook and check speeds, limitations and emergency procedures. Where they differ, the handbook wins.
- Match model, year and engine. Check the airplane’s registration and data plate, then confirm the checklist fits that model, year and engine, and any STCs installed.
- Read the logbook before you fly. After maintenance, read what was done, then give those areas extra attention during the preflight.
- Read, then verify. Many pilots run a flow from memory and then read the checklist to verify. Whatever method you were taught, use it the same way each time.
Pilot tip: After any work on the flight controls, confirm the controls move in the correct direction, not just freely. It’s a classic item to verify on the first flight after maintenance.
More photos
Where to buy
CheckMate Cessna 172 DE Checklist is sold by Skyfarer Shop. Find it on the Skyfarer marketplace or order directly from Skyfarer Shop. Either link shows the current price, shipping options and return terms.
Frequently asked questions
Does QuickMate replace the full checklist?
QuickMate is a 5″ x 7″ plastic card with an abbreviated checklist for pilots who prefer minimalism. It keeps the V-speeds and emergency procedures from CheckMate, but it’s a shorter reference by design.
Does this checklist replace the POH?
No. It supplements the airplane’s POH/AFM, which remains the authority for procedures, limitations and performance. Confirm the checklist matches your aircraft’s exact model, year, engine and handbook.
What’s the difference between Standard and Compact?
Standard is 6.5″ x 9″ and Compact is 5″ x 7″. Compact suits smaller kneeboards and tight cockpits; Standard gives the print more room.
