Skylane Cessna 182 -
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
Evolution & Notable Variants
The 182 has been produced almost continuously since 1956 (with a break from 1986-1996 during Cessna's production halt). skylane cessna 182
Bulletproof Maintenance: Almost every general aviation mechanic on the planet knows how to fix a 182. Parts are highly accessible, making ownership far less of a headache than rarer airframes. 👎 The Realities of Ownership The Cessna 182 Skylane is one of the
: The first 182 models featured a 230 hp Continental O-470-L engine and a gross weight of 2,550 lbs. The "Skylane" Name Fuel Burn: It drinks about 12–16 gallons per hour (vs
In 1956, Cessna answered with the Model 182. Essentially, it was a Cessna 180 fuselage mated to the nosewheel of the Cessna 172. The result was a stable, powerful aircraft that could handle rough strips (thanks to its optional "Land-O-Matic" heavy-duty gear) while being easy to taxi and land.
Performance: The aircraft features a constant-speed propeller, allowing for optimized engine efficiency during different phases of flight (climb vs. cruise).
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.
is a high-performance workhorse designed for short fields and long cross-country flights. CESSNA 182 Specifications, Performance, and Range