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Cessna 182 Skylane is one of the most successful and versatile single-engine aircraft in aviation history. Celebrating over 70 years of flight [29], it is widely regarded as the "ideal first airplane" for owners [34] due to its balance of performance, high useful load, and rugged durability [27, 29]. 1. Key Specifications & Performance
The Skylane is a step up from the ubiquitous Cessna 172, offering significantly more power and speed.
Typically powered by a 230 HP engine (compared to 160 HP in a 172) [30]. Cruise Speed: Approximately Useful Load:
Varies by model; the 182T has a useful load of approximately 920.5 to 998 lbs Fuel Burn: Consumes roughly 13–14 gallons per hour during cruise [31]. Approximately (928 nautical miles) [11]. Stall Speed: 49 knots in landing configuration (T182T) [35]. 2. Buying & Ownership Costs
Owning a Skylane is a significant investment, with costs varying greatly between new and used models. New Aircraft: A brand new 2025 Cessna 182 Skylane can cost between $500,000 and $600,000 , including modern avionics like the G1000 NXi [28]. Used Market:
Many pilots opt for used aircraft to lower the entry price [28]. Models from the 1970s remain popular for their balance of price and reliability. Operating Costs: Hourly fuel costs range from $77 to $105
[31]. Owners must also factor in hangar fees, insurance, and annual inspections. 3. Operational Insights
While reliable, the 182 has specific handling and maintenance traits every pilot should know: Flight Characteristics:
It is a "high-performance" aircraft [29]. Due to its massive airfoil and light weight, it can be sensitive to gusts and typically requires continuous trimming during level flight [32]. Fuel System: Models built before 1979 may experience uneven fuel feeding
between tanks due to the original venting system design [33]. Weight Management:
For the T182T, a max-weight departure often requires burning off fuel (approx. 27 gallons) before landing to stay within the maximum landing weight of 2,950 lbs [27]. 4. Maintenance & Support
Because of its longevity, parts and service manuals are widely available for various generations (e.g., 1974-76 parts manuals [17]). Service Manuals: Comprehensive guides cover everything from the 182RG (Retractable Gear) to standard Skylane parts catalogs Community: Organizations like the Cessna Pilots Association
The Cessna 182 Skylane is a four-seat, single-engine, high-performance light aircraft known for its reliability and "workhorse" reputation
. Introduced in 1956 as a tricycle-gear version of the Cessna 180, it has become the second most popular Cessna model after the 172. Key Specifications (Cessna 182T)
Modern variants typically feature the following performance metrics: Powerplant: 1 × Lycoming IO-540-AB1A5 air-cooled flat-six, 230 hp. Propeller: 3-bladed constant speed. Max Speed: 150 kn (170 mph). Cruise Speed: 145 kn (167 mph). Approximately 915–930 nautical miles. Useful Load: 1,110 pounds. Service Ceiling: 18,100 ft. Operational Highlights Newer models come standard with the Garmin G1000 NXi
suite, which includes high-resolution graphics and wireless connectivity. Stability:
Its high-wing design offers excellent stability and downward visibility, making it a favorite for both cross-country travel and specialized missions like skydiving. Landing Gear:
Most models use fixed tricycle gear, though retractable gear variants (designated as the
or "Skylane RG") were produced to improve cruise speed and fuel efficiency. Popular Variants Skylane RG (R182):
Features retractable gear, offering a 10–15% improvement in climb and cruise speeds. Turbo Skylane (T182T):
Equipped with a turbocharged engine (Lycoming TIO-540) for better performance at high altitudes. Skylane JT-A:
A diesel-powered variant designed to run on Jet-A fuel, though its wide-scale production was eventually discontinued. Ownership & Maintenance
The 182 is praised for its moderate speed and relatively easy maintenance. Resources for owners include: NTSB (.gov) Parts Catalogs: illustrated parts catalogs skylane cessna 182
are available for identifying replacement components for various model years. Cessna Pilots Association:
A key resource for owners to stay informed about mechanical concerns and service updates. NTSB (.gov) or information on buying/selling a Skylane?
1956 through 1986 Cessna 182 Fixed Gear Skylane Buyers Guide Excerpt
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 widely regarded as the ultimate "mission" aircraft in general aviation, often described as a beefier, more capable version of the legendary Cessna 172. Since its debut in 1956, it has become one of the most produced and enduring models in Cessna's lineup, prized for its balance of power, range, and payload. Performance and Flight Dynamics
The Skylane is a true four-adult aircraft, capable of carrying a full load of passengers and fuel—a feat many smaller singles cannot achieve. 182 Market Report & Tips - Cessna Owner Organization
The Cessna 182 Skylane is one of the most recognizable and successful aircraft in the history of general aviation. Since its introduction in 1956, it has become a staple for private pilots, flight schools, and utility operators due to its robust design and "high-performance" capabilities Historical Development
The Skylane was originally developed as a tricycle-gear version of the Cessna 180 taildragger. 1956 Debut
: The first 182 models featured a 230 hp Continental O-470-L engine and a gross weight of 2,550 lbs. The "Skylane" Name
: The "Skylane" moniker was introduced for the 1957 model year to distinguish the premium, fully-equipped versions from the base 182 models. Continuous Production
: Aside from a brief hiatus from 1986 to 1996, the aircraft has remained in production, evolving from carbureted engines to modern fuel-injected systems like the Lycoming IO-540 found in recent models. Design and Specifications
The aircraft is a four-seat, high-wing, all-metal monoplane known for its stability and useful load. Performance
: Typically cruises at speeds between 140–145 knots with a range of approximately 900 nautical miles, depending on the variant. Safety Features
: Modern versions, such as the 182T, are equipped with the Garmin G1000 glass cockpit, offering advanced situational awareness and safety features for pilots. Robust Landing Gear
: Its fixed tricycle gear makes it a popular choice for pilots transitioning from smaller trainers like the Cessna 172 to more powerful aircraft. Operating Costs and Market Value Cessna 182 Skylane is one of the most
Owning a Skylane is considered a significant step up from entry-level light aircraft. Fuel Consumption : It typically burns 13 to 14 gallons of Avgas per hour. Purchase Price : A brand-new Cessna 182 Skylane in 2025 can cost between $500,000 and $600,000
, while used models from the 1960s or 70s are often found for significantly less depending on airframe hours and engine time. Common Operational Considerations
While reliable, pilots must be aware of specific design quirks: Fuel Bladders
: Pre-1979 models use fuel bladders that can be prone to contamination if not maintained. Landing Characteristics
: Due to its heavy nose, the 182 is susceptible to "nose-wheel first" landings if not properly flared, which can lead to firewall damage. of a specific model year, or an operating cost comparison against similar aircraft like the Beechcraft Bonanza?
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
Cessna 182 Skylane is widely regarded as the ultimate "step-up" aircraft in general aviation, striking a perfect balance between simplicity and high-performance capability. Since its introduction in 1956, it has become the world’s second most popular Cessna model—trailing only the Cessna 172 Skyhawk —with over 24,000 units produced. Key Performance & Specifications Modern variants, such as the Cessna 182T
, are built for both recreational cross-country travel and utility missions. Cessna Skylane - Textron Aviation
Introduced in 1956 as a more powerful follow-up to the Cessna 180 (a taildragger), the 182 featured the now-iconic tricycle landing gear (nose wheel). This made it easier to taxi, take off, and land than its taildragger cousin while retaining the muscle to haul heavy loads.
The "Skylane" name was coined to evoke a "sky highway" – smooth, stable, and capable.
Production of the 182 stopped briefly in the mid-1980s, but Cessna restarted the line in 1996 with the 182S, followed by the current 182T (produced until 2023, with plans for a new version coming).
The modern 182T is a technological marvel compared to its 1960s ancestors. It features:
However, with a price tag hovering near $800,000 (new), most pilots will happily buy a well-maintained 1970s model for $120,000–$180,000 and fly it for another 40 years.
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.
The year is 2024. Drones are delivering packages. Electric aircraft are buzzing over European cities. And yet, at rural airports from Alaska to Zimbabwe, the sound of a Continental or Lycoming engine starting up on a cold morning echoes across the tarmac. It’s a Skylane Cessna 182.
It is not the prettiest airplane on the ramp. It is not the most efficient. But if you had to choose one single-engine aircraft to fly around the world, to haul a moose carcass out of the bush, or to teach your teenager how to manage a constant-speed propeller, you would choose the 182.
It is the definition of "aviation utility." It is the workhorse that refuses to be retired. For pilots seeking the ultimate balance of safety, capability, and cost, the Cessna 182 Skylane remains the undisputed king of the four-seat, high-performance singles. Nose gear strut: Must have 3-4 inches of extension
N-number not required—just an appreciation for honest engineering.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult the Pilot’s Operating Handbook (POH) and a certified A&P mechanic before operating any aircraft. Specifications vary by model year.
The sun was just beginning to dip toward the horizon, painting the Kansas plains in streaks of burnt orange, when Elias pulled the hangar doors open. There she sat: November-8-2-Delta, a 1972 Cessna 182P Skylane.
She wasn't the sleekest bird on the ramp, but she was sturdy. To Elias, the 182 was the "pickup truck of the skies"—strong enough to carry a full load of fuel and four adults without breaking a sweat, yet gentle enough to forgive a bounced landing.
He climbed inside, the familiar scent of aged leather and aviation fuel greeting him like an old friend. After the rhythmic "clear prop!" and the cough of the Continental O-470 engine, the airframe vibrated with a reassuring hum.
Taxing out, the Skylane felt heavy and planted. But the moment Elias pushed the throttle forward for takeoff, that weight turned into pure authority. The high-wing design offered a panoramic view as the ground fell away. Below, the patchwork quilt of farmland stretched forever, and for the first time all week, the noise of the world was replaced by the steady, rhythmic drone of the propeller.
He leveled off at 4,500 feet, trimmed the nose, and leaned back. The Skylane didn't twitch or hunt; it simply held its line through the sky. As the first stars blinked into existence, Elias realized he wasn't just flying a machine; he was riding a legacy of gold-standard engineering that had been carrying dreamers home for decades. If you'd like to dive deeper into this aircraft, I can:
Give you a breakdown of its performance specs (speed, range, etc.)
Explain the main differences between the 182 and its smaller sibling, the 172 Look up the current market price for a used Skylane
The Cessna 182 Skylane is widely regarded as the ultimate "all-around performer" in general aviation. Since its introduction in 1956, it has filled the gap between the trainer-oriented Cessna 172 Skyhawk and the heavier Cessna 180 Skywagon, offering a rare balance of payload, speed, and short-field capability. Key Performance Specifications
The 182 is a high-performance, four-seat aircraft known for its stability and predictable handling. Typical Specification (182T) Engine Lycoming IO-540-AB1A5 (230 hp) Cruise Speed ~140–145 knots Useful Load ~1,100–1,200 lbs Fuel Capacity 88 gallons usable (long-range tanks) Service Ceiling 18,100 feet (standard) Landing Distance ~590 feet ground roll Why Pilots Love the Skylane
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
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
It flies like a bigger, heavier 172 – which is to say, very stable. It's not sporty; it's solid. This makes it an excellent instrument training platform and cross-country cruiser. Passengers appreciate the smooth, confident ride.