Skylane Cessna 182

The Cessna 182 Skylane is widely regarded as one of the most successful all-around general aviation aircraft ever designed, earning the nickname of the "flying pickup truck" for its impressive useful load and rugged reliability. Since its introduction in 1956, over 24,000 units have been produced, making it Cessna's second most popular model still in production after the 172. It is the definitive "step-up" plane for pilots moving from a training-oriented Cessna 172 to a more capable cross-country machine. Key Performance Specifications

The modern Cessna 182T and its turbocharged counterpart, the T182T, offer a balance of speed and utility that few other single-engine pistons can match.

Engine & Power: Equipped with a Lycoming IO-540 air-cooled flat-six engine producing 230 hp (normally aspirated).

Cruise Speed: Typically cruises at 145 knots (167 mph), while the turbocharged model can reach 165 knots at higher altitudes.

Useful Load: A standout feature is its 1,110 lb useful load, allowing it to carry four adults and full fuel—a rare feat for its class.

Range: Offers a maximum range of 915 to 930 nautical miles, providing over 6 hours of endurance.

Takeoff/Landing: Capable of operating on short runways, with a takeoff ground roll of approximately 795 feet and landing roll of 590 feet. Evolution and Variants

Over nearly seven decades, the Skylane has evolved through 23 distinct variants to meet modern technological standards.

The Cessna 182 Skylane is a high-performance, single-engine aircraft renowned as a versatile "workhorse" in the aviation world. Introduced as a more powerful successor to the popular Cessna 172, the Skylane has celebrated over 70 years of service, used globally for training, pleasure, and business. Key Features & Specifications skylane cessna 182

Power & Payload: Modern models feature a 230-hp engine and an impressive 1,110 lb useful load capability.

Performance: It offers a maximum speed of 280 km/h (151 knots) and a range of approximately 1,720 km.

Design: Maintains the classic high-wing configuration, which provides stability at low speeds and easier exits, making it a favorite in the skydiving industry.

Variants: Over its long history, variants have included turbocharged engines for high-altitude performance and retractable landing gear (the R182) for increased speed. Performance Data Specification Crew/Passenger Capacity 1 Pilot / 3 Passengers Cruise Speed 269 km/h (approx. 145 knots) Rate of Climb Empty Weight Maximum Takeoff Weight Ownership & Operation

Cost: A brand new Cessna 182 Skylane typically ranges from $675,000 to $745,000.

Operating Costs: Owners report burning about 13 gallons of fuel per hour. Maintenance is generally straightforward, as most shops worldwide are familiar with the 182.

Handling: While stable, the 182 is heavier and more complex than the 172. It may require continuous trimming in flight due to its massive airfoil and sensitivity to wind gusts. Common Issues

Prospective buyers should be aware of potential fuel contamination risks linked to certain flush-style fuel caps and bladder tanks, as well as a susceptibility to carburetor ice in older models. Cessna Skylane - Textron Aviation The Cessna 182 Skylane is widely regarded as

The Cessna 182 Skylane is one of the most popular and versatile four-seat, single-engine aircraft ever produced. Introduced in 1956, it is essentially a more powerful and capable evolution of the Cessna 172, designed for cross-country travel with a higher payload and faster cruise speed. Key Specifications (Modern 182T Model) Engine: Lycoming IO-540-AB1A5 (230 hp). Seating: 4 people (1 pilot, 3 passengers). Cruise Speed: ~145 knots (167 mph). Useful Load: ~1,100 lbs. Range: ~800–930 nautical miles (approx. 1,720 km). Takeoff Distance: ~1,500 feet. Operational Highlights

Performance: The aircraft features a constant-speed propeller, allowing for optimized engine efficiency during different phases of flight (climb vs. cruise).

Handling: Known for stability and forgiving flight characteristics, it is often a preferred "step-up" plane for private pilots or even a primary trainer for those who can afford the higher operating costs.

Variants: Over its long production history, variants have included the Skylane RG (retractable gear) and Turbo Skylane (for high-altitude performance). Ownership & Cost Considerations

Price of a New Cessna 182 (2026–2027): Complete Cost Guide - Jettly

The Skywagon King: Why the Cessna 182 Skylane Remains an Aviation Icon

In the pantheon of general aviation, few aircraft command the respect and loyalty quite like the Cessna 182 Skylane. Since its debut in 1956, the "Skylane" has earned a reputation as the "everyman’s airliner"—a machine that perfectly bridges the gap between the forgiving nature of a trainer and the capability of a serious cross-country traveler.

While the smaller Cessna 172 Skyhawk is often the plane pilots learn to fly in, the Cessna 182 is frequently the aircraft they aspire to own. It is a workhorse, a family hauler, and a backcountry explorer all rolled into one. Here is a look at why the Skylane remains a titan of the skies. Pros: The sweet spot

Performance: The Sweet Spot

The defining characteristic of the Skylane is its engine. Early models featured a 230-horsepower Continental O-470, while newer variants moved to fuel-injected and eventually Lycoming powerplants. Regardless of the specific variant, the Skylane offers a distinct performance boost over its little brother, the 172.

A typical Skylane cruises at around 145 knots (roughly 167 mph) and offers a useful load often exceeding 1,100 pounds. This is the "magic number" for families. In a Skyhawk, filling the seats often means leaving the fuel tanks half-empty. In a Skylane, you can fill four seats, bring luggage, and still carry enough fuel for a respectable four-hour flight with reserves. This hauling capability turned the 182 into the favored tool for ranchers, pipeline inspectors, and weekend travelers alike.

Mid-Life (1967–1985) – $90,000–$150,000

  • Pros: The sweet spot. 235-240 HP (1981 182R has 235 HP), large rear "Omni-Vision" windows, good useful load, many have been upgraded with modern avionics.
  • Cons: Some airframe cracks near landing gear boxes. "R" models can have rust in fuel tanks.
  • The Must-Have: An engine monitor (JPI or Garmin) and a recent 100-hour inspection.

A Brief History: From the 180 to the Iconic 182

To understand the Skylane 182, you must first understand its predecessor: the Cessna 180. Introduced in 1953, the 180 was a taildragger (conventional landing gear) known for its ruggedness. But the market was shifting toward tricycle gear, which offered easier ground handling and better forward visibility.

In 1956, Cessna released the 182 Skylane. It married the powerful 230-horsepower engine of the Cessna 180 with the tricycle landing gear of the popular 172. It was an instant hit.

Short Field Performance

This is where the Skylane shines. While not a Super Cub, a skilled pilot can get a 182 off the ground in under 800 feet and clear a 50-foot obstacle. Landing distance is similar. This is why the Skylane is the unofficial aircraft of the Alaskan bush.

Note: The Cessna 182 is NOT a floatplane, right? Wrong. There are prolific aftermarket floats (Wipline, EDO) that turn the Skylane into a capable seaplane, further proving its utility.

Common Criticisms (Nobody's Perfect)

  • Fuel Burn: It drinks about 12–16 gallons per hour (vs. 8–10 in a 172). Operating costs are higher.
  • Nosewheel (for some): Bush purists prefer the taildragger Cessna 180/185, which handles rougher terrain better. The 182's nose gear is sturdy but can be damaged on big rocks.
  • Landing Gear "Shimmy": A known quirk – nosewheel shimmy on landing requires proper maintenance and technique.
  • Not Aerobatic: It's a truck, not a sports car.

The Indomitable Skylane: Why the Cessna 182 Remains Aviation’s Ultimate Workhorse

In the pantheon of general aviation aircraft, few names command as much respect, nostalgia, and practical admiration as the Skylane Cessna 182. Sandwiched between its legendary little brother, the Cessna 172 (the most produced aircraft in history), and the burly six-seater Cessna 206 Stationair, the 182 Skylane occupies a "Goldilocks" zone of performance.

Introduced in 1956, the Cessna 182 has been in continuous production for nearly 70 years. It is not the fastest, cheapest, or most glamorous aircraft on the ramp. Yet, ask any seasoned flight instructor, bush pilot, or cross-country traveler to name the best all-around single-engine piston aircraft, and the answer is almost universally the same: The Skylane.

This article dives deep into the history, performance, variants, operating costs, and enduring legacy of the Cessna 182 Skylane.

Evolution & Notable Variants

The 182 has been produced almost continuously since 1956 (with a break from 1986-1996 during Cessna's production halt).

  • 182A through 182N (1956-1968): "Straight tail" and later "fastback" designs. Classic, lightest of the breed.
  • 182P (1972-1976): "Omni-Vision" rear window introduced – much better visibility.
  • 182Q (1977-1981): "Sky Lane" (two words) – more soundproofing, larger baggage door.
  • 182R (1981-1986): Last of the original production run.
  • 182S, T, U (1997-2012): Return with more powerful, fuel-injected Lycoming IO-540 (260 HP). Modern avionics, better interior.
  • Turbo Skylane (182T with turbo): Adds a turbocharger for high-altitude performance (service ceiling ~20,000 ft).
  • 182 JT-A (2010s - rare): A diesel-powered version (SMA engine) that ran on Jet-A. Only a handful built.