Classic Do-All Cross Country Aircraft Returns for 2022

There's good news for would-be Cessna buyers dog-earing the classifieds in search of the perfect Skylane 182T - It's back in production for the first time in over 5 years.

The high-wing, utilitarian Skylane has long been a favorite of the Cessna lineup, and its newest guise adds all the modern flight deck accouterments with the power boost of a 235hp Turbocharged flat-six. 

The 182 has a storied history with the company, despite its production line containing a few fits and starts since its initial release in 1956. While the 182T is back, it largely follows what made previous generations so successful, with only a few small improvements and quality of life additions. Front and center lie 2 charging ports, a single USB-c and USB each. Their inclusion is a step in the right direction, a nod to the tidal shift of electronic flight bags and power-hungry smartphones in every pocket. (It is a little disappointing, however, that for the price Cessna didn’t throw in more than 1 port of each. Sorry co-pilot! Guess we'll have to take turns charging our phones in this ~2/3rd of a million dollar aircraft) 

Of course, those flying the 182T shouldn't need an iPad, since it comes with the newest G1000 NXi avionics suite. The NXi now uses dual-core processors and increased memory, higher resolution displays, and wireless connectivity. Maybe best of all, unlike an iPad it doesn't shut down when you leave it in the sunlight for too long. The NXi does make use of those EFBs, however.

Its wireless capability can accept data from Garmin Pilot or Foreflight apps,  meaning pilots can plan the next flight out while enjoying their (now) $200 burger and upload their route once they get into the plane. That streamlining cuts down on idling hours plugging in waypoints over the life of the aircraft, saving maintenance and minimizing wasted tach time. 

Of course, the main reason for excitement in the 182T is the classic blend of performance with capacity. The base level Skylane and using its spacious, cozy, leather-trimmed cabin provides passengers a comfy cross-country cruiser. Add in the capability to hop up into the higher altitudes for smoother, cooler flying and you quickly understand just why it's been a favorite of pilots for decades.

Since its introduction, versions with a turbocharged Lycoming have been the go-to for a Skylane with a little extra gumption, and it's modern TIO-540-AK1A is enough for a claimed 1,040 ft/min climb rate up to 20,000 ft. At max altitude, Cessna says pilots can expect 165 knots all day long at full power. Aside from added fuel injection, the Skylane is the same reliable, trustworthy travel steed it always was.

The heated 3-blade propeller is the only anti-ice equipment installed, however, meant to help escape dicey situations in case an adventure at the flight levels gets a bit too chilly. 

The numbers remain largely unchanged, with a maximum range of 917 nm at 10,000 feet on 87 gallons of usable fuel - about 9 hours of flight time. The useful load comes in at just under 1,000 pounds, enough for 2 average couples (198 lb male/166 lb female) and 270 pounds of baggage. While en route, the unpressurized Skylane makes do with a 4-place oxygen system for flight up high.

Pricing is not immediately visible through Textron, but is assumed to be in the neighborhood of $650,000. 

FMI: www.txtav.com