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Stepping Up From a 172: Why the Cessna 182 Skylane is the Perfect Next Plane
For pilots trained in a Cessna 172, the next logical step is often the Cessna 182 Skylane. Learn why this step-up aircraft is popular, what performance improvements to expect, additional training requirements, and how to transition successfully from a trainer to a high-performance aircraft.
Why Pilots Upgrade from 172 to 182
The Cessna 182 Skylane is the natural upgrade from a 172. While both are Cessna high-wing singles, the 182 offers significantly improved capabilities that expand flying mission possibilities.
Key Reasons for Upgrading
- Useful load: Nearly double the 172's payload capacity
- Performance: Better climb rate, higher cruise speed, improved take-off performance
- Backcountry capability: Short-field performance enables mountain and backcountry operations
- Practical family aircraft: Can actually carry full fuel plus 4 adults comfortably
- IFR capable: Better systems and performance for instrument flying
Performance Comparison
172 vs 182 Specifications
| Specification | Cessna 172 | Cessna 182 | Improvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | Continental O-300/470 (150-230 hp) | Continental O-470 (230 hp) | 50-80 hp more (on average) |
| Cruise Speed | 110-124 knots | 140-150 knots | 20-30 knots faster |
| Rate of Climb | 600-700 fpm | 900-1,000 fpm | 40-50% improvement |
| Service Ceiling | 13,000-18,000 ft | 18,000-20,000 ft | Higher altitude capability |
| Useful Load | 700-800 lbs | 1,200-1,300 lbs | 50-70% more |
The Useful Load Advantage
The single biggest advantage of the 182 over the 172 is useful load. This transforms the aircraft from a "pilot and three friends with minimal baggage" to a genuine "four adults plus full fuel and baggage" aircraft.
Real-World Useful Load Examples
- 172: 180 lbs pilot + 170 lbs copilot + 150 lbs passenger = 500 lbs occupants, leaving only 200 lbs for fuel and baggage
- 182: 180 lbs pilot + 170 lbs copilot + 150 lbs 3rd passenger + 150 lbs 4th passenger = 650 lbs occupants, with 600+ lbs available for fuel and baggage
High-Performance Endorsement Requirements
The Cessna 182's 230 hp engine requires a high-performance endorsement, just like the later 172 models.
Requirements (FAA 14 CFR 61.31)
- Minimum 1 hour instruction: In aircraft with engine over 200 hp
- Ground training: System knowledge, performance, operations of complex aircraft
- Instructor sign-off: Endorsement on pilot certificate
- Recommended total training: 3-5 hours minimum for 172 pilots (short transition)
Transition Training Program
Typical Transition Program (3-5 hours)
- Ground briefing (1 hour): Systems review, performance, weight & balance procedures
- Aircraft familiarization (0.5 hours): Cockpit overview, systems location, procedures
- Flight 1 (1 hour): Startup, taxi, takeoff, climb, cruise handling, descent, landing
- Flight 2 (1 hour): Short-field operations, slow flight, stalls, go-arounds, crosswind landings
- Flight 3 (optional, 1 hour): Performance operations, forward CG/aft CG, soft-field operations
Operating Costs & Economics
Cost Comparison
- 182 fuel burn: 12-14 gph (vs 7-9 gph for 172)
- Fuel cost per hour: $75-85 (vs $45-55 for 172)
- Maintenance: Similar annual costs, slightly higher due to power
- Insurance: 10-20% higher for 182 due to increased horsepower
- Total hourly cost: $150-200 vs $120-150 for 172
Economics Justification
Despite higher operating costs, the 182 often pencils out financially because you can fly the same trip with more useful load, meaning fewer intermediate stops or flights.
Handling & Flying Characteristics
How the 182 Feels Different
- Control response: Slightly more responsive than 172, still forgiving
- Takeoff performance: Noticeably shorter takeoff roll, quicker climb
- Cruise: More purposeful, higher speed makes flying feel busier
- Landing: Better approach stability, less float, positive flare response
- Short-field capability: Remarkable improvement allows operations on grass strips
182 Typical Missions & Use Cases
- Mountain flying: Performance sufficient for high-altitude airport operations
- Backcountry access: Short-field capabilities open remote landing strip operations
- Family transportation: Can actually accommodate family of 4 plus baggage on meaningful distance
- Bush flying: Larger aircraft use the 182 as entry-level bush plane
- Search and rescue: Non-profit operators choose 182 for performance and load
- Patrol missions: Law enforcement and forestry services appreciate capability
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