Cessna 182P Skylane Aircraft in South Africa

The Cessna 182 Skylane is the natural step-up from the 172 Skyhawk — same forgiving high-wing design, but with a Lycoming O-540-AB1A5 engine producing 230 HP that transforms capability. In production since 1956 with over 23,000 delivered, the 182 carries four adults, full fuel, and baggage without the weight-and-balance compromises that plague the 172. Cruise speed jumps to 140 KTAS on 12-14 GPH, and the useful load exceeds 1,000 lbs in most configurations.

Key variants span seven decades. The early 182A-P (1956-1986) are straight-tail and swept-tail models with Continental O-470-R/S engines (230 HP). The 182Q/R (1977-1986) improved the panel and systems. Production resumed in 1997 with the 182S (Lycoming IO-540-AB1A5), and the 182T (2001+) brought the Garmin G1000 glass cockpit. The T182T Turbo Skylane adds a Lycoming TIO-540-AK1A (235 HP turbocharged) for high-altitude cruise at 156 KTAS and FL200 capability. The 182 Skylane is also popular on floats — its 230 HP provides adequate performance for amphibious operations.

Buying advice. On Continental-powered models (pre-1997), check for cylinder cracking and case through-bolt corrosion — the O-470 is a reliable engine but requires diligent maintenance. On Lycoming-powered models, verify compliance with Lycoming SB 632 (valve train inspection). Common airframe items: nose gear shimmy damper, cowl flap cables, and exhaust system cracks. The landing gear on fixed-gear 182s is robust but the retractable 182RG requires careful pre-buy of gear actuator and squat switch systems.

Market pricing. 1970s 182P/Q with mid-time engine: $60,000-$100,000. 1990s-2000s 182S: $150,000-$250,000. 182T with G1000: $250,000-$400,000. T182T Turbo: $280,000-$430,000. The Cessna 182 for sale market is deep and liquid — it is the most popular four-seat step-up aircraft in general aviation. Cessna 182 operating costs run approximately $150-$180/hr including fuel, maintenance reserves, and insurance.