Last updated: November 21, 2025

Cessna 182 Useful Load: Understanding the Flying Pickup Truck Capability

The Cessna 182 earns its nickname as the "flying pickup truck" through exceptional useful load capacity and mission versatility. Unlike the 172's modest payload limitations, the 182 can carry substantial loads across impressive distances. Understand the 182's useful load capabilities, real-world loading scenarios, and how to maximize this aircraft's payload potential while maintaining safe weight and balance.

Useful Load Overview & Specifications

The Cessna 182's useful load capacity is its defining feature, enabling operations impossible with lesser aircraft.

182 Useful Load Specifications

Useful Load Advantage

• Absolute advantage: 182 carries 650+ lbs more than 172; roughly double the cargo capacity
• Relative advantage: 182 useful load is 54-55% of MTOW vs. 172's 39% ratio
• Fuel capacity: 92 gallons (682 lbs) vs 172's 48 gallons (357 lbs); enables longer missions
• Practical impact: Four adults, maximum fuel, and significant cargo possible
• Comparison to competitors: Similar to Piper Dakota; superior to Beechcraft A36 initially

Real-World Loading Scenarios

Understanding practical loading scenarios helps evaluate whether the 182 suits your mission profile.

Maximum Useful Load Scenario (No Fuel)

• Total useful load available: 1,600-1,700 lbs (depending on variant)
• Four occupants (four 180-lb adults): 720 lbs
• Remaining for cargo/fuel: 880-980 lbs
• Cargo only scenario: Can carry nearly 1,000 lbs cargo with minimal fuel
• Short-hop missions: Ideal for short-distance high-payload operations

Full Fuel Scenario (Four Occupants)

• Full fuel weight: ~680 lbs (92 gallons)
• Four occupants: ~720 lbs (average)
• Subtotal: 1,400 lbs
• Remaining for cargo: 200-300 lbs
• Practical use: Cross-country trips with four people and luggage

Optimal Balance Scenario (Useful Load)

• Common scenario: Two pilots (360 lbs) + half fuel (340 lbs) = 700 lbs
• Remaining payload: 900-1,000 lbs available for cargo
• Range with this loading: 400-500 nm with 45-minute reserve
• Practical mission: Two pilots hauling substantial cargo to regional airport
• Advantage over 172: 172 could only carry 100-200 lbs cargo in same scenario

Weight & Balance Management

The 182's useful load is only achievable with proper weight and balance management. CG limits restrict loading flexibility.

Weight and Balance Envelope

• Forward CG limit: ~35-36% of MAC (mean aerodynamic chord)
• Aft CG limit: ~43-44% of MAC
• CG travel: Approximately 8-9 inches forward/aft
• Sensitivity: Rear cargo placement affects CG significantly
• Impact: Improper balance limits usable payload or affects stability

Cargo Placement Strategy

• Forward loading: Heavyitems near front to avoid aft CG limits
• Aft loading consideration: Empty aft seat/cargo area may push CG forward
• Fuel impact: Fuel location (wings) affects CG less than body cargo
• Calculation necessity: Always calculate W&B; don't rely on estimates
• Margin requirement: Maintain safety margins; don't load to absolute limits

Payload Optimization Strategies

Maximizing payload requires planning and strategic fuel management.

Fuel Management for Payload

• Variable fuel strategy: Carry only necessary fuel; plan fuel stops
• Example: For short 150-nm mission, 20 gallons fuel sufficient; saves 150 lbs
• Practical range: 300 nm missions possible with modest fuel reserves
• Regional operations: Multiple short hops maximize payload utility
• Risk management: Never sacrifice safety for payload; maintain adequate reserves

Occupant Weight Optimization

• Basic empty weight: Consider only necessary crew and passengers
• Weight reduction: Some operators use lighter crew to maximize cargo
• Professional operations: Carefully manage crew weight vs. mission requirements
• Safety first: Never compromise crew capability for marginal weight savings

Useful Load Across 182 Variants

Different 182 variants offer varying useful load capacities affecting mission suitability.

Early 182 (1956-1977)

• Useful load: 1,640 lbs
• Engine: Continental O-470 (230 hp)
• Fuel capacity: 88 gallons
• Age considerations: Systems and avionics may be dated
• Maintenance costs: Often less expensive than newer variants

182P/Q (1981-2007)

• Useful load: 1,600 lbs
• Engine: Lycoming O-540 (230-310 hp) or turbocharged variants
• Fuel capacity: 92 gallons
• Equipment: More modern avionics available
• Performance: Better high-altitude capability with turbo option

182T (2007-present)

• Useful load: 1,700 lbs (best in class)
• Engine: Lycoming TIO-540 (310 hp) turbocharged
• Fuel capacity: 92 gallons
• Equipment: Modern glass cockpit options standard
• Cost: Higher initial purchase; advanced features justify cost

Fuel vs Payload Trade-Offs

The fundamental trade-off in aircraft design requires careful mission planning.

Mission Planning Matrix

• Long-distance missions: Require full fuel (reduce cargo capacity)
• Cargo missions: Minimal fuel; multiple short-range loads
• Balanced missions: Optimal fuel for mission range; maximum available cargo
• Remote operations: Full fuel essential; limits cargo to emergency supplies
• Calculation example: 500-nm mission requires 40+ gallons (300 lbs); leaves 1,300 lbs cargo

Cargo Configurations & Capabilities

The 182 can be configured for various cargo operations with minimal modifications.

Cargo Door Option

• Cargo door availability: Optional equipment on some models
• Benefit: Enables loading long items through side door
• Cost: $3,000-5,000 for retrofit installation
• STC requirement: FAA approval required for modification
• Operational impact: Opens mission possibilities for unique cargo

Rear Cargo Area Configurations

• Standard configuration: Bench seat; easily removable for cargo
• Cargo netting: Secure cargo against fuselage
• Weight distribution: Forward/aft loading based on CG requirements
• Restraint systems: Proper tie-down points required
• Access: Rear door permits easy loading/unloading

Practical Mission Examples

Real-world examples demonstrate the 182's versatility and payload advantage.

Backcountry Supply Mission

• Scenario: Resupply remote cabin 150 nm away
• Loading: Two pilots (360 lbs) + 20 gal fuel (150 lbs) + cargo (900 lbs)
• Cargo capacity: Can carry nearly 1,000 lbs supplies
• Ground distance: 300-mile round trip easily accomplished
• 172 comparison: 172 could only carry 200-300 lbs cargo; multiple trips needed

Search and Rescue Mission

• Scenario: Rescue team deployment to remote location
• Loading: Pilot + 3 rescue personnel (720 lbs) + equipment (400 lbs) + fuel (500 lbs)
• Range: 300+ nm mission possible with full team
• Capability: Carries rescue equipment that would require multiple smaller aircraft
• Advantage: Single aircraft efficiency vs. coordination of multiple aircraft

Commercial Cargo Operation

• Scenario: Regional cargo service between small airports
• Loading: Pilot (170 lbs) + 1,200 lbs cargo + 200 lbs fuel
• Route: Multiple 200-250 nm segments daily
• Economics: 1,200 lbs per trip economically viable
• Competitive advantage: Single 182 replaces multiple 172s for same mission