Skylane Cessna 182 | !link!
Often called the " SUV of the Skies Cessna 182 Skylane is one of the most successful and versatile four-seat, single-engine aircraft ever built. Since its introduction in 1956, nearly 24,000 units have been produced, making it the second most popular Cessna model after the 172. Globalair.com Core Specifications (Modern 182T Model) The modern Cessna Skylane
is a high-performance workhorse designed for short fields and long cross-country flights. CESSNA 182 Specifications, Performance, and Range
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
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 one of general aviation's most enduring and versatile aircraft, widely regarded as the ultimate "step-up" plane for pilots transitioning from the smaller Cessna 172 Skyhawk. Since its introduction in 1956, it has become the second-most popular Cessna model ever produced, beloved for its rare balance of speed, payload capacity, and stable flight characteristics. The Evolution of the Skylane skylane cessna 182
The 182 began as a tricycle-gear variant of the taildragging Cessna 180. While early models featured a straight vertical tail and small windows, the aircraft evolved significantly over seven decades:
Early Innovations: The "Skylane" name was introduced in 1957 for a deluxe version of the 182A. Major design updates followed, including the "Omni-Vision" wrap-around rear window in 1962 and a wider fuselage for increased cabin comfort.
The RG Era (1978–1986): Cessna introduced the Skylane RG (R182), a retractable-gear version that offered a 10–15% improvement in cruise speed and fuel economy at the cost of higher maintenance.
Restart and Modernization: After a production hiatus (1986–1996), the 182 returned with the 182S model, moving from Continental to fuel-injected Lycoming engines. Modern variants like the 182T and T182T (Turbo) now come standard with the Garmin G1000 NXi glass cockpit. Performance and Specifications
The Skylane is often called a "load hauler" because it can carry nearly anything you can fit through the doors.
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 Often called the " SUV of the Skies
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 Factory New (T182T / 182T) – $500,000+ (New)
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
Factory New (T182T / 182T) – $500,000+ (New)
- New from Textron. Comes with NXi avionics, autoland assist, air conditioning, and full warranty. For flight schools or wealthy owners.
1. The "Hauling Machine"
This is the single biggest selling point. In a Cessna 172, if you fill all four seats (750 lbs of people), you might only be able to carry 20 gallons of fuel—good for about two hours of flying. In a 182, you can fill all four seats, pack 100 lbs of luggage, and still fill the 87-gallon long-range tanks. It is the ultimate family cross-country machine.
Key Specifications (Typical late-model 182)
| Specification | Detail | |---------------|--------| | Engine | Continental O-470 (230 HP) or Lycoming IO-540 (260 HP in newer models) | | Cruise Speed | 145–160 knots (167–184 mph) | | Range | 800–1,000+ nautical miles (with reserves) | | Useful Load | 1,100–1,400+ lbs (4 adults, bags, and full fuel is easy) | | Service Ceiling | 18,000+ ft (non-turbo) | | Takeoff Distance (50ft obstacle) | ~1,500 ft |