What would be the preference for anyone that had the choice as a training aircraft.

I am about to finish my PPL after 3 years of not flying. I can return to the FBO that I started at where they sold off their fleet of 152's and are now using the Diamond D20 as their primary trainer. Or I can go to a different place where they have 152's.

I have about 60 hours logged in a 152.

Any thoughts on this??

Price?

Katanas are nice airplanes if you're under 6 feet tall. A little warm in the summer but they fly really nice and are quick once in cruise. I'd choose the DA20 over the 152 if the prices are the same. You're going to have to relearn the aircraft either way.

Which ever is cheaper as long as both schools are reputable.

If you still remember the 152 well, then stay with that. It wouldn't take but a quick review for you to recall the information, systems, EP's...especially after 60 hours. They usually aren't too expensive, at least in aviation terms. It's a great trainer - what I learned in. Great plane...but if the Diamond runs the same price, then go with whatever makes your heart happy my friend.

I have lots of hours in a 150/52. Flew the DA-20 in ABQ last year and it seemed ok. Still think the Cessna is better for training. If you are familiar with the 152 the you can't go wrong.

Ill agreed, and say the c152 is better for training, and could take harsh landings better than the katana, witness =)

6'1 and live in Florida. I had not even thought about the heat part with the Katana. no overhead shade with that bubble top cockpit.

I think the 152 is going to win out. it's hot in there but at least the sun was not beating down on me.

Price wise the 152 is a little cheaper.

I would go with the less expensive. You get the same rating either way.

I'm 6'5"...have flown both. The 150/152 is better for training but they both suck when it comes to room.

I would say your decision should come down to price. I have never flown a 152. I have flown a 172 and a Katana. The Katana is a great airplane. I learned how to fly gliders, and thus I love the stick versus the yoke. It is roomier than the 152. The Katana climbs faster than the 152. It is quicker and more responsive. It also burns less gas (which may be a big consideration considering the ever rising cost of fuel).

There is no doubt in my mind that a Katana is a better airplane with respect to performance. That is what pilots tend to look at when choosing an airplane. However, performance is second to cost in my book. I believe the 152 may be cheaper than the Katana. Since you have 60 hours, you will not need quite as many hours as a fresh student pilot. So my advice would be to choose the Katana if it is within $5-10. Maybe you can take a demo flight in the Katana and see if you like it or not. Also, be sure to check out the other school to make sure it is reputable.