How Much For That Skylane In The Window?

Five Cessna 182s used by Pennsylvania State Police for tracking criminals, finding missing persons and other tasks are being offered for sale to the general public, Commissioner Jeffrey B. Miller announced Thursday.

"These Cessna 182s have provided vital aerial support for State Police operations and for other law enforcement agencies across the commonwealth," Miller said. "Because of their key role in our department's day-to-day functions, these aircraft have been maintained to the highest standards by our expert aviation mechanics."

Miller said the five planes being offered for sale through the Department of General Services might be an ideal fit for flight schools, tour operators, or charter/rental use. The 1981-2000 Skylanes range in price from $86,000 to $188,000.

State Police is retiring the planes and replacing them with four Cessna 206H Station Airs that will be leased through Bun Air Corp. of Bedford.

Miller said State Police will use proceeds from the sale to fund the leases of the new planes. Following the sale, the State Police air fleet will consist of six fixed-wing aircraft and eight helicopters.

The Department of General Services will also advertise the planes being offered for sale on several commercial aviation Web sites.

FMI: www.psp.state.pa.us