Regulations, it seems. Here's an article that provides some clues: https://generalaviationnews.com/2012/09/09/the-cost-of-certification/ https://generalaviation

Regulations, it seems. Here's an article that provides some clues: https://generalaviationnews.com/2012/09/09/the-cost-of-certification/ https://generalaviationnews.com/2012/09/09/the-cost-of-certi... As I understand it, the most lenient certification to allow someone to sell planes to masses in USA is the (special) Primary Category¹, for the General Aviation, which Cessna's two-seat 152 model seems to be in. Cessna's four-seat model 172, however, is on another category, the so-called "Utility Aircraft", which required the more costly Standard Certification². With a broader (legally permitted) use, it's kind of natural to expect an appropriate price difference. ¹ https://www.faa.gov/aircraft/air_cert/airworthiness_certification/sp_awcert/primary/ https://www.faa.gov/aircraft/air_cert/airworthiness_certific... ² https://www.faa.gov/aircraft/air_cert/airworthiness_certification/std_awcert/ https://www.faa.gov/aircraft/air_cert/airworthiness_certific...