About the CESSNA 182D
The Cessna 182, particularly the 182D model, holds a venerable place in the pantheon of general aviation aircraft. Introduced by the Cessna Aircraft Company in 1956, the Cessna 182, also known as the Skylane, was positioned as a more powerful and capable upgrade to the highly successful Cessna 172. The aim was to provide private pilots with greater performance, comfort, and range, thus appealing to both casual flyers and those using their aircraft for business purposes. The 182D model, introduced in 1959, was among the early iterations that improved upon the initial design with several notable enhancements that increased its appeal and versatility.
The Cessna 182D featured a more streamlined cowling and improved fuel capacity, up to 65 gallons, which significantly extended its range and opened it up to longer-distance flights. Additionally, the 182D had better cabin ventilation and improved instrument panel layouts, responding directly to pilot and passenger feedback regarding comfort and usability. The aircraft was powered by a Continental O-470 engine that provided 230 horsepower, ensuring a robust climb rate, a higher cruise speed, and the capacity to handle higher payloads.
Key Features and Capabilities
One of the key reasons behind the production of the Cessna 182D was to offer an aircraft that could operate safely and comfortably in a wide variety of conditions, including high-altitude and short-field scenarios, making it a favorite among flight schools and private owners who needed a versatile, dependable aircraft. Its fixed landing gear reduced maintenance costs and complexity compared to retractable gear systems, making it more affordable to operate and maintain.
In summary, the Cessna 182 and its iterations like the 182D have proven to be a valuable asset in general aviation due to their balance of performance, reliability, and operational economy. The Skylane series continues to be a popular choice among pilots, with the 182D marking an important step in its evolution offering incremental yet significant improvements that deepened its market reach and user satisfaction.