I'm trying to find a suitable aircraft to get my spin endorsement for my CFI rating but am running into trouble with most aerobatic aircraft due to my height (too tall).
My last thought is that I could use a 172 in the utility category (I already know I fit in one and can have full control authority - I can get my legs under the dash to reach the pedals and my knees don't block the yoke).
It looks like 14 CFR 91.307(d) says I wouldn't need a parachute since I'm doing this with a flight instructor for training for a certificate.
In Section 2 of the 1978 Cessna 172N POH under the heading Utility Category
(page 2-7), it says
This airplane is not designed for purely aerobatic flight. However, in the acquisition of various certificates such as commercial pilot and flight instructor, certain maneuvers are required by the FAA. All of these maneuvers are permitted in this airplane when operated in the utility category.
Provided I am operating the aircraft in the Utility category (CG within limits and Weight 2000 lbs. or less), is there any reason I couldn't use a Cessna 172 to obtain my spin endorsement?
(I know that the gyro in the Attitude Indicator can tumble - I'm not sure how to get around that if I can't cage it - but is it really harmful? I've heard this is one of those perpetual aviation myths - that it doesn't really cause damage, it just takes time to reset)