Textron Aviation on May 2 celebrated the 65-year anniversary of the Cessna Skylane 182. More than 23,000 Skylane aircraft have been delivered since its Type Certification on March 2, 1956. It was introduced as a tricycle gear variant of the 180m, before taking on the brand name Skyline a year later as the 182A variant.

As noted on Wikipedia, “Later models were improved regularly with features such as a wider fuselage, swept tailfin with rear omni-vision window, enlarged baggage compartment, higher gross weights, landing gear changes… The restart aircraft built after 1996 were different in many other details including a different engine [and] new seating design.”

The four-seat, single-engine piston aircraft remains popular with aviation enthusiasts worldwide, explains Textron, because of the adventure and freedom it provides. The company notes the 65-year anniversary is special to many pilots who took their memorable first solo flight in a Skylane.

Multiple variants have been produced through the decades, and the aircraft is regularly used by civil operators, cadet organizations and flight schools worldwide.

Today’s 230-horsepower Skylane piston aircraft, with its high-wing design and durable airframe, holds a maximum range of 915 nautical miles, maximum cruise speed of 145 ktas, useful load of 1,110 pounds, and takeoff ground roll of 795 feet.

(Photo: Textron)