What kind of aircraft?  The FAA has been big on a couple things the past few years about seat removal.  One, the manufacturer of your aircraft must have provisions somewhere for whatever seat configuration you are going with.  An aircraft like a C210 would be no problem to have the bench seat out or even all 4 back seats removed.  Also, make sure you have a certified mechanic do the removal and have them document the work and have an amended W&B.  You can't do it yourself as it doesn't fall under preventative maintenance.  However, if you can find a seat removal training program for your aircraft then you just might be able to it, but chances are you won't find one.  Anyway, just consult your shop/A%P/IA and they will be able to help you out.

It's also a good idea to start with your aircraft's Type Certificate Data Sheet, which sometimes refers you to the Equipment List.

For example, you'll see a reference in the earlier 172 TCDS to seating, which indicates 2 @ +36, 2 @ +70, and for child's optional jump seat, refer to the equipment list.

Hi Charlie,

I have a '58 172 and did exactly what you want to do.
 
I take out the back seat for extended trips to Canada every summer.  It adds about 29 lbs to useful - but the big plus is the ease of packing - nothing like a flat floor!!

I had my mechanic remove the seat (6 minutes!), weight it on an official scale and recalc the W&B.  I keep both copies (w/ and w/o seat) of the W&B in the aircraft.  That way I'm good to go either way.  Make sure you strap everything down.  Enjoy!

Mark

Hello, I recently started flying a 1959 C172.  I'm still trying to figure out how to remove the rear seat.  I'm mechanically challenged!  Can anyone offer some advice?  Thanks!

W Ron Brent Wrote
-------------------------------------------------------
> I do this in my 172 for the Oshkosh trip and when
> hauling some cargo for work.  Legally you are
> supposed to amend you weight and balance.  I have
> never weighed my seat but the extra room is a
> plus.  I have a cargo net and secure this over the
> load in case of turbulence.  The seat takes about
> 10 minutes to remove since it is a tight fit.  You
> can put a lot of stuff back there and I use most
> of the space.  Careful packing and organization
> helps.  When stopping enroute the things I wanted
> always seemed to be on the bottom of the pile.
>
> Ron
Hi Ron,
I am looking for a cargo net for a cessna 185. I see in your posting that you have a cargo net. Can you help me.