Aerospace acquires 25 Cessna 175 Skyhawks for flight training program The John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences has entered into a multi-year contract with Cessna Aircraft Company and placed an initial order for 25 Cessna 172 Skyhawks. These aircraft will replace the Piper Warrior as the basic training aircraft. “Cessna Aircraft has always been a big supporter of the Odegard School throughout our 40 years in flight training,” said Don Dubuque, director of extension programs. “The first 20 years UND used Cessna aircraft for our single engine trainer. Even the years that Cessna was 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, and we’re thrilled they’ve chosen to expand their fleet with new Cessna 172 Skyhawks,” said John Doman, Cessna’s vice president, worldwide propeller aircraft 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.” 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. “This marks the historic return of aircraft manufactured by Cessna that launched us on our journey that began in 1968 with two Cessna 150s,” said Bruce Smith, dean of the Odegard School. “We are marking our 40th anniversary with the phrase “from tradition to tomorrow” by recovering and restoring one of those first two Cessna 150s, purchase of the Citation Mustang, and expansion of our fleet with Cessna 172s. Our tomorrow is certainly bright and the return of Cessna to our flight line keeps us within the top echelon of collegiate flight schools.” -- Karen Ryba, director of communications, aerospace, ryba@aero.und.edu, 701-777-4761