Cessna 182: Definition, Specs, Models, Difference, Procedure
Jim Goodrich • • Reading time: 19 min

Cessna 182 is a single-engine, four-seat aircraft widely recognized for its reliability and performance in general aviation. The Cessna 182 features a high-wing design with a robust airframe and incorporates advanced avionics systems. Pilots value the aircraft for its horsepower, range, and takeoff capabilities. The interior provides comfort with adjustable seats and sufficient cabin space while the wingspan and dimensions provide stability during flight. Explore the Cessna 182's engine specifications, service procedures, and model differences to appreciate its part in aviation.

The Cessna 182 Skylane measures specific lengths and wingspans designed for stability during flight. The aircraft accommodates a pilot and passengers with a seating arrangement suitable for small groups. A durable lightweight aluminum construction ensures structural integrity while maintaining efficient performance. Advanced avionics systems enhance safety and reduce pilot workload during operations. The single-engine design achieves maximum cruise speed requiring specific takeoff distances. The aircraft supports useful payload capacity with specified maximum takeoff weight.
The models of the Cessna 182 show refinements over time: the base model introduces initial specifications, while later variants increase gross weight and cruise speed while maintaining horsepower. Specific variants introduce new wing designs and structural changes adding turbocharged options. Modernized engines and avionics restart production in specified years. Advanced avionics suites integrate into models for boosted flight management.
The Cessna 182 differs from the Cessna 172 in engine power and payload capacity. Performance metrics highlight suitability for rapid ascent and higher power output in the Cessna 182. Range capabilities vary between the two models achieving extended distances under optimal conditions. Speed differences separate maximum cruise capabilities while fuel efficiency appeals to pilots prioritizing economy. Dimensional differences influence usability contributing to operational simplicity.
Flying the Cessna 182 involves conducting pre-flight inspections assuring system functionality. Verification processes confirm fuel levels meeting mission requirements. Control surface movement checks guarantee free operation without damage. Tire inflation checks prevent ground handling issues during taxi and landing. Engine diagnostics confirm oil levels and electrical system readiness. Runway alignment sets flaps and mixture for takeoff settings rotation. Climb procedures retract flaps maintaining full power at optimal speeds. Descent procedures adjust flaps incrementally stabilizing approach configuration.
Cessna 182 aircraft are available for sale through various platforms. Aircraft marketplaces provide comprehensive inventory listings displaying detailed specifications and photos with price ranges. Global listings are aggregated through directories, allowing filters by location and year filtering. Classified listings host auction-style options facilitating buyer-seller interaction. Broker networks maintain dealer listings, offering pre-screened aircraft histories. Official dealership locations provide certified inventory offering thorough inspections. Service networks support ongoing maintenance and parts availability post-purchase.
What is the Cessna 182 plane?
The Cessna 182 is a reliable and versatile single-engine, four-seat light aircraft known for its proven airframe and ability to take off and land safely on short runways. The Cessna 182 Skylane serves both personal and training purposes, offering easy handling and longer endurance flights. Cessna Aircraft Company, based in Wichita, Kansas, developed the Cessna 182 to meet the needs of pilots seeking a reliable and versatile aircraft for global travel. The Cessna 182 has a length of 29 ft (8.84 meters) and a wingspan of 36 ft (10.97 meters), contributing to its stability during flight. Equipped with a Lycoming IO-540-AB1A5 engine producing 230 horsepower, the Cessna 182 achieves a maximum range of 930 nautical miles (1720 km). The aircraft accommodates one crew member and three passengers, with a useful payload of 1140 lbs (517 kg).
The Cessna Aircraft Company developed the Cessna 182 Skylane in 1956 as a key model in its lineup. The Cessna 182 plane model incorporates a high-wing configuration designed to enhance stability and provide excellent visibility during flight operations. The aircraft utilizes a single-engine design powered by the Lycoming IO-540-AB1A5 engine producing 230 horsepower. This setup ensures efficient performance for both short-field takeoffs and extended cruising. The Cessna 182 achieves a maximum cruise speed of 175 knots (324 kilometers per hour) and requires a takeoff distance of 1,514 feet (461 meters).
The seating arrangement of the Cessna 182 accommodates one pilot and three passengers, making it suitable for small groups or families. The aircraft supports a useful payload of 1,140 pounds (517 kilograms) with a maximum takeoff weight of 3,100 pounds (1,406 kilograms). Classified as a light general aviation aircraft, the Cessna 182 serves personal, training, and utility purposes effectively. The high-wing configuration contributes to greater stability and better ground visibility during taxiing and takeoff.
The Cessna 182 demonstrates versatility through its adaptability for recreational flying, flight training, and small-scale cargo transport. The Skylane variant represents a notable version known for robustness and reliability in diverse operational environments. Measuring 29 feet (8.84 meters) in length with a wingspan of 36 feet (10.97 meters), the Cessna 182 achieves a maximum range of 930 nautical miles (1722.36 kilometers).
What are the specifications of the Cessna 182 Skylane?
The specifications of the Cessna 182 Skylane are given in the table below.
Specification | Value |
Aircraft Type | Cessna 182 Skylane |
Length | 29 feet (8.84 meters) |
Wingspan | 36 feet (10.97 meters) |
Height | 9 feet 4 inches (284 centimeters) |
Wing Area | 174 square feet (16.2 square meters) |
Empty Weight | 1,970 pounds (893.6 kilograms) |
Maximum Takeoff Weight | 3,100 pounds (1,406.1 kilograms) |
Useful Load | 1,140 pounds (517 kilograms) |
Fuel Capacity | 88 gallons (333 liters) |
Fuel Consumption (Cruise) | 14–16 gallons per hour (53–60.6 liters per hour) (53–60.6 liters per hour (14–16 gallons per hour)) |
Engine Model | Lycoming IO-540-AB1A5 |
Engine Power | 230 horsepower (170 kW) |
Fuel Type | Aviation gasoline |
Propeller Type | 3-bladed constant speed propeller |
Cruise Speed | 145 knots (167 mph, 269 km/h) |
Maximum Range | 930 nautical miles (1,070 miles, 1,720 km) |
Rate of Climb | 924 feet per minute (281.6 meters per minute) |
Service Ceiling | 18,100 feet (5,500 meters) |
Landing Gear Configuration | Tricycle landing gear |
Airframe Construction | Aluminum |
Avionics Suite | Advanced systems including GPS (e.g., Garmin G1000/G3000) |
Communication Systems | Dual VHF radios |
Autopilot System | Garmin GFC 700 digital autopilot system |
The aluminum construction of the Cessna 182 Skylane ensures both durability and lightweight characteristics. The avionics of the Cessna 182 Skylane enhance safety and reduce pilot workload.
The specifications of the Cessna 182 Skylane include its robust airframe, tricycle landing gear, aluminum construction, and advanced avionics.
What is the engine specification of a Cessna 182?
The engine specification of a Cessna 182 is given in the table below.
Engine Model | Lycoming IO-540 |
Cylinders | 6 |
Configuration | Horizontally opposed |
Cooling System | Air-cooled |
Horsepower (IO-540-AB1A5) | 230 hp |
Horsepower (IO-540-D4B5) | 260 hp |
Displacement | 541.5 cubic inches (8.9 liters) |
Fuel Delivery System | Fuel injection |
What are the different models of the Cessna 182?
The different models of the Cessna 182 are listed below.
- Cessna 182 Skylane Base Model: Introduced in 1956, featured a straight tail and a gross weight of 2,550 lbs (1,157 kg).
- Cessna 182A Skylane: Increased gross weight to 2,650 lbs (1,202 kg) in 1957, marking the beginning of the Skylane series.
- Cessna 182B Skylane: Enhanced cruise speed to 141 KIAS in 1959 while maintaining horsepower.
- Cessna 182C Skylane: Incorporated incremental refinements in 1960.
- Cessna 182D Skylane: Continued updates in 1961 with limited documentation available.
- Cessna 182E Skylane: Introduced a new wing design, structural changes, and turbocharged options for higher-altitude performance in 1962.
- Cessna 182F Skylane: Featured a swept tailfin, rear "Omni-Vision" window, and electric flaps in 1963.
- Cessna 182G Skylane: Included further avionics and cabin comfort improvements in 1964.
- Cessna 182RG Cutlass Retractable Gear Model: Offered faster cruise speeds due to retractable landing gear, introduced between 1978 and 1986.
- Cessna 182S Skylane: Restarted production in 1997 with a modernized engine and advanced avionics.
- Cessna 182T Skylane: Equipped with the Garmin G1000 avionics suite starting in 2001 for advanced flight management.
The different models of the Cessna include the Cessna 182 Skylane Base Model, Variants A-T, and the RG Cutlass Retractable Gear Model. The Cessna 182A Skylane Variant A Designation increased the gross weight to 2,650 lbs (1,202 kg) and marked the beginning of the Skylane series. The Cessna 182E Skylane Variant E Designation introduced a new wing design and structural changes while adding turbo options for higher-altitude performance. The Cessna 182RG Cutlass Retractable Gear Model provided faster cruise speeds due to reduced drag from retractable gear. The Cessna 182T Skylane Variant T Designation featured the Garmin G1000 avionics suite for advanced flight management. The Cessna 182S Skylane restarted production in 1997 with a new engine and upgraded avionics.
What are the features of a Cessna 182 seaplane?
The features of a Cessna 182 seaplane are outlined below.
- Cessna 182 seaplane with float-equipped design: Supports a maximum weight of 3,100 lbs (1,406 kg), providing buoyancy and stability during water operations.
- Cessna 182 seaplane water landing gear configuration: Amphibious floats replace traditional landing gear, enabling takeoffs and landings on both water and land.
- Cessna 182 seaplane hydrodynamic hull modifications: Streamline float shapes to reduce drag, optimizing performance during water taxiing, takeoff, and landing.
- Cessna 182 seaplane float mounting systems: Use robust attachment points and vibration damping features to enhance durability and comfort in marine operations.
- Cessna 182 seaplane corrosion resistance features: Include protective coatings and saltwater-resistant materials to extend lifespan in harsh marine environments.
- Cessna 182 seaplane engine power output: Equipped with a 230 horsepower engine for efficient performance in both air and water operations.
- Cessna 182 seaplane maximum range: Achieves a range of 900 nautical miles, balancing fuel efficiency with added drag from seaplane floats.
- Cessna 182 seaplane cruising speed: Maintains a cruising speed of 140 knots, offering reliable travel in marine environments.
- Cessna 182 seaplane water takeoff distance: Extends to approximately 1,645 feet (501 meters) under standard conditions for safe water departures.
- Cessna 182 seaplane aerodynamic adjustments: Control surface modifications enhance maneuverability during water operations for efficient handling.
- Cessna 182 seaplane amphibious float systems: Enable dual land and water operations, increasing versatility for diverse missions.
- Cessna 182 seaplane structural reinforcements: Address increased operational demands, maintaining integrity during repeated water cycles.
- Cessna 182 seaplane shock absorption systems: Protect the airframe during water landings, assuring passenger safety and aircraft durability.
- Cessna 182 seaplane maintenance considerations: Focus on ease of inspection and repair access for robust float mounting systems.
- Cessna 182 seaplane cabin capacity: Accommodates up to four passengers with a payload capacity of 1,000 pounds (453.6 kilograms), retaining land-based model dimensions.
- Cessna 182 seaplane marine stability: Ensures safe and controlled operations in challenging water conditions, improving mission adaptability.
- Cessna 182 seaplane water drag reduction techniques: Minimize operational inefficiencies, contributing to smoother flights and optimized performance.
Fuel efficiency decreases due to the added drag from seaplane floats stability and buoyancy features. Safety and operational features unique to the seaplane version incorporate amphibious float systems enabling dual land and water operations. Hydrodynamic hull modifications and water aerodynamics streamline float shapes for better floatation efficiency and reduce drag. Water landing gear configuration structural design accommodates additional stresses from water landings, with shock absorption systems protecting the airframe. Float mounting systems secure attachment enhances durability, while vibration damping minimizes turbulence effects. Corrosion resistance features for marine environments material treatment includes protective coatings applied to significant components, extending saltwater durability and preventing degradation over time. Corrosion resistance features for marine environments protective coatings safeguard exposed areas against saltwater corrosion for long-term reliability. Seaplane floats’ durability relies on aluminum or fiberglass construction, providing strength and resistance to harsh marine conditions. Structural reinforcements address increased operational demands, maintaining the aircraft’s integrity during repeated water cycles. Water landing gear configuration increases water landing performance by using durable materials and designs capable of withstanding wave action and impact forces. Passenger comfort and cargo capacity specific to the seaplane configuration adapt seamlessly to marine environments without compromising usability. Seaplane-specific aerodynamic adjustments optimized lift contributes to smoother flights, while water drag reduction techniques minimize operational inefficiencies. Adaptability for marine environments balances practicality with performance, making the Cessna 182 seaplane variant suitable for diverse missions.
TheCessna 182 seaplane features float design, water landing gear configuration, hydrodynamic hull modifications, float mounting systems, seaplane-specific aerodynamic adjustments, corrosion resistance features, and seaplane performance attributes.
What are the differences between the Cessna 182 and 172?
The differences between the Cessna 182 and 172 are explained in the table below.
Parameter | Cessna 172 Skyhawk | Cessna 182 Skylane |
Engine Model | Lycoming O-320 | Lycoming IO-540-AB1A5 |
Engine Power (Horsepower) | 160 HP | 230 HP |
Engine Displacement | 5.24 liters (319 cu in) | 8.5 liters (519 cu in) |
Maximum Cruise Speed | 124 knots | 154 knots |
Useful Load | 800 lbs (362.9 kg) | 1,130 lbs (512.6 kg) |
Fuel Capacity | 56 gallons (211.96 liters) | 84 gallons (318 liters) |
Range (Optimal Conditions) | 800 miles (1,287.48 km) | 900+ miles (1,448.41 km) |
Climb Rate | 730 ft/min (222.5 m/min) | 925 ft/min (281.94 m/min) |
Empty Weight | 1,650 lbs (748 kg) | 1,970 lbs (893.6 kg) |
Maximum Takeoff Weight | 2,450 lbs (1,111 kg) | 3,100 lbs (1,406 kg) |
This difference in horsepower directly impacts the performance of each aircraft. The Cessna 182 Skylane performance includes a climb rate of 925 feet per minute (282 meters per minute), surpassing the Cessna 172 Skyhawk performance, which achieves 730 feet per minute (223 meters per minute). These performance metrics highlight the Cessna 182’s suitability for missions requiring rapid ascent and higher power output. Payload capacity further distinguishes the two models. The Cessna 182 Skylane payload reaches 1,130 pounds (512 kilograms), accommodating more passengers or cargo compared to the Cessna 172 Skyhawk payload of 800 pounds (363 kilograms). Range capabilities vary, with the Cessna 182 Skylane range exceeding 900 miles (1448 kilometers) under optimal conditions, while the Cessna 172 Skyhawk range is 800 miles (1287 kilometers). These differences make the Cessna 182 Skylane ideal for longer trips and heavier loads. Speed is another key factor separating the two aircraft. The Cessna 182 Skylane speed achieves a maximum cruise of 154 knots, outpacing the Cessna 172 Skyhawk speed of 124 knots. While the Cessna 172 Skyhawk fuel efficiency appeals to pilots prioritizing economy, the Cessna 182 Skylane balances speed with endurance for extended missions. Fuel capacity for the Cessna 172 Skyhawk measures 56 gallons (211.96 liters), sustaining its range while maintaining manageable weight within the Cessna 172 Skyhawk dimensions. Dimensional differences further influence usability. The Cessna 172 Skyhawk empty weight is 1,650 pounds (748 kilograms), contributing to its manageable size and operational simplicity. In contrast, the Cessna 182 Skylane empty weight is around 1,970 pounds (893.6 kilograms), reflecting its robust construction and ability to handle heavier payloads. The Cessna 172 Skyhawk maximum takeoff weight is 2,450 pounds (1,111 kilograms), whereas the Cessna 182 Skylane maximum takeoff weight reaches 3,100 pounds (1,406 kilograms), emphasizing its versatility for diverse mission profiles. The Lycoming IO-540 engine displacement of 8.5 liters (519 cubic inches) and the Lycoming O-320 engine displacement of 5.24 liters (319 cubic inches) underline the engineering distinctions driving these performance and capacity variations.
The differences between the Cessna 182 and 172 include variations in engine power, payload capacity, speed, and overall performance.
What are the differences between the Cessna 182 and the Cessna 206?
Differences between the Cessna 182 and the Cessna 206 are explained in the table below.
Category | Cessna 182 Skylane | Cessna 206 Stationair |
Engine Specification | Lycoming IO-540-AB1A5, 230 HP | Continental IO-550-F, 300 HP |
Payload Capacity | 1,110 lbs (503.49 kg) | 3,600 lbs (1,632.93 kg) |
Maximum Range | 930 nautical miles | Optimized for utility; range varies |
Length | 29 ft (8.8392 m) | 28 ft (8.5344 m) |
Wingspan | 36 ft (10.97 m) | 36 ft (10.9728 m) |
Height | 9 ft 4 in (284 cm) | Not explicitly mentioned |
Cabin/Cargo Space | Smaller cabin | Larger cabin and cargo area |
Variant Focus | Stability, visibility (Skylane variant) | Utility, versatility (Stationair variant) |
Manufacturer Origin | Wichita, Kansas (Textron Aviation) | Wichita, Kansas (Textron Aviation) |
Primary Use Cases | Personal flying, durability, comfort | Cargo transport, passenger hauling, rugged |
Turbocharged Options | Available in some models | Not mentioned |
The Cessna 182 engine specification includes a Lycoming IO-540-AB1A5 engine producing 230 horsepower, while the Cessna 206 engine specification features a Continental IO-550-F engine generating 300 horsepower. This difference in power directly impacts performance, with the Cessna 206 offering superior climb rates and load-carrying capabilities. The Cessna 182 range extends to 930 nautical miles, making it suitable for longer personal flights. In contrast, the Cessna 206 focuses on utility missions, providing a larger cabin and cargo space designed for heavier loads and versatile operations. These dimensions contribute to the stability and visibility emphasized in the Skylane variant. The Cessna 182 Skylane variant details highlight its high-wing design, which enhances pilot visibility and flight stability. The Stationair variant of the Cessna 206 is engineered for versatility, excelling in passenger transportation and cargo hauling. The Cessna 206 Stationair variant details emphasize its ability to operate in diverse environments while carrying substantial payloads. The Cessna 182 Turbocharged models achieve increased efficiency and operational flexibility.
The differences between the Cessna 182 and the Cessna 206 include variations in engine specifications, payload capacity, range, airframe dimensions, and variant details.
How to fly a Cessna 182?
To fly a Cessna 182 follow the instructions given below.
- Conduct a pre-flight inspection to make sure all systems function correctly.
- Verify fuel levels meet mission requirements and check for leaks.
- Confirm control surfaces move freely without restrictions or damage.
- Check tire inflation to prevent ground handling issues during taxi and landing.
- Perform engine diagnostics to confirm oil levels, electrical systems, and communication equipment readiness.
- Align the aircraft with the centerline of the runway during takeoff.
- Set flaps to 10° and mixture to full rich as part of takeoff settings.
- Rotate at 55-60 knots (102-111 km/h) during takeoff.
- Climb at 70-80 knots (130-148 km/h) with flaps retracted while using full power.
- Adjust throttle to maintain optimal cruise speeds of 140-150 knots (259-278 km/h).
- Establish a steady climb rate of 1,000 feet per minute (304.8 meters per minute).
- Maintain a controlled descent rate of 500-1,000 feet per minute (152.4-304.8 meters per minute).
- Adjust flaps incrementally to stabilize the approach during descent.
- Set flaps to 20° or 30° for landing configuration.
- Ensure landing gear is extended and locked before touchdown.
- Begin flare timing at 10-20 feet (3.05-6.1 meters) above the runway for a smooth descent.
- Monitor flight instrumentation for vital data like heading, altitude, and airspeed.
- Observe engine diagnostics through oil pressure and temperature gauges.
- Continuously monitor fuel levels and flow rates during flight.
- Confirm functionality of brakes, ailerons, elevators, and rudder using pre-flight checklists.
- Follow emergency checklists for scenarios like engine failure response.
- Establish best glide speed at 65 knots (120 km/h) during emergencies.
- Adhere to performance limitations, including maximum takeoff weight and never exceed speed.
- Reduce power gradually when descending to avoid abrupt altitude changes.
- Push the yoke forward gently to initiate descent while maintaining stability.
- Pull back on the yoke to regain altitude smoothly.
- Use trim controls to relieve control pressures and maintain stable flight.
- Accelerate smoothly during takeoff roll to achieve required speeds efficiently.
- Lift off the runway at recommended rotation speed for optimal climb performance.
- Fly the aircraft precisely, adhering to specified procedures in the Cessna 182 flight manual.
Climb and cruise procedures power management ensures efficient flight by adjusting throttle to maintain optimal cruise speeds of 140-150 knots (259-278 km/h). Climb techniques involve establishing a steady rate of 1,000 feet per minute (304.8 meters per minute) during ascent. Cessna 182 flight manual performance limitations specify a maximum takeoff weight of 2,950 lbs (1,338 kg), service ceiling of 17,000 feet (5,182 meters), and never exceed speed (Vne) of 175 knots (324 km/h).
To fly a Cessna 182, adhere to established procedures and maintain attention to detail.
Where can I find a Cessna 182 for sale?
You can find a Cessna 182 for sale on platforms like Controller.com, Trade-A-Plane, and Barnstormers, where listings highlight price, condition, and specifications. Controller.com provides a comprehensive inventory of Cessna 182 aircraft, with prices ranging from $82,000 to $709,000 based on recent listings. Trade-A-Plane updates daily and features over 200 listings for the Cessna 182, with prices between $100,000 and $300,000. Barnstormers includes classified listings and auction-style options, offering public forums for direct buyer-seller interaction. GlobalAir aggregates global listings, allowing users to filter by location, year, and equipment specifications. Aviation brokers and official Cessna dealerships provide certified inventory and specialized services for premium transactions.
Controller.com provides a controller aircraft marketplace online platform with extensive listings. The controller aircraft marketplace inventory listings include detailed specifications and photos for Cessna 182 aircraft, showing prices from $82,000 to $709,000. Trade-A-Plane updates daily and features a trade-a-plane marketplace inventory of over 200 aircraft. The trade-a-plane aircraft listings display price details ranging between $100,000 and $300,000. GlobalAir aggregates aircraft listings through its GlobalAir aircraft directory. The GlobalAir online inventory allows users to filter by location, year, and equipment, offering comprehensive search options for buyers.
Barnstormers hosts barnstormers classified listings alongside barnstormers auction listings for Cessna 182 aircraft. The Barnstormers public forum facilitates direct buyer-seller interaction, enabling discussions about specific models and technical questions. Aviation brokers operate within an aviation brokers’ broker network, maintaining aviation brokers’ dealer listings that include pre-screened aircraft with detailed maintenance histories. Official Cessna dealerships’ official dealership locations provide Cessna dealerships certified inventory, offering thorough inspections and warranty coverage. The Cessna dealerships service network supports ongoing maintenance and parts availability for purchased aircraft.
Aircraft classifieds platforms feature listings with seller postings that include specifications, maintenance logs, and pricing. Prices for Cessna 182 aircraft vary, starting at $82,000 for older models and exceeding $700,000 for newer or upgraded examples. The cessna 182 price depends on model year, total time, and avionics condition. Websites like AircraftDealer.com and Hangar67.com offer classified listings, expanding the range of available options for buyers seeking a Cessna 182.
What is the price of a C182?
The price of a C182 varies based on age, condition, and features. Brand new base models start at $653,000. Turbocharged versions cost around $750,000. Pre-owned models in average condition range from $182,000 to $375,000.
The cost difference between base models and advanced configurations highlights the impact of specific features on pricing. A new C182 without additional features starts at $430,000, while turbocharged versions reach $750,000. Mid-tier used models range from $375,000 for average condition to $470,000 for those with upgraded specifications. Optional upgrades like avionics packages or performance enhancements further differentiate values across the market.
Additional features increase the price of both new and used C182s. Autopilot systems and advanced avionics elevate the cost of a new model to $470,000 or more, depending on the configuration. Nearly new aircraft with premium features list at $705,000, reflecting the added value of customization. High-end used models in excellent condition command prices up to $709,000 due to their low hours and exceptional maintenance history.
Market variations in C182 pricing reflect the diversity of available options. Entry-level used models with basic specifications start at $113,644, offering an affordable option for budget-conscious buyers. On the other hand, very old aircraft requiring repairs are priced as low as $82,000. Rare configurations or exceptional conditions push prices to $709,000, showcasing the wide spectrum of values within the C182 market.