How to Launch a Cessna 172

Go through the pre-flight checklist before flying any plane. Included in your pre-flight, call ATIS (Automatic Terminal Information Service) for the particular airport information that you are flying out of.

Radio the tower to get your clearance to taxi out onto the runway that they will specify for you to use. Tower frequencies are in the airport directory. Within the call, tell them who you called (tower), the type of aircraft you're in and its number painted on the side, and last, what action you want to take, for example, taxi out to the runway. Wait for them to call to tell you which runway to head out to.

Check each system. Listen to the tower for your takeoff clearance. Repeat what they tell you back to them.

Taxi out to the runway. Wait at the hold bar, which is a painted yellow double line with dashes. Once you've received their clearance, taxi the airplane over the hold bar. Now you're on the runway. Line the Cessna up on the center line.

Steer with the rudder pedals to keep the Cessna on the centerline. Give the throttle a gentle push forward until you reach full power.

Watch your airspeed. When it gets to 55 knots, apply gentle pressure back on the yoke. Use the rudder on the right to counter any tendencies to turn left. Pitch the Cessna at 75 knots to climb out.