Cessna Ct182

Single Piston

The Cessna Turbo 182 Skylane represents Cessna's answer to pilots seeking the legendary 182's handling characteristics with the added capability of turbocharged performance at altitude. Introduced in various iterations since the 1970s, the turbocharged 182 variants (including the T182, R182, and modern CT182T Skylane) pair a Lycoming TIO-540 engine with a turbocharger system that maintains sea-level power to significantly higher altitudes than the normally-aspirated model. This gives the aircraft a service ceiling around 20,000 feet — roughly 6,000 feet higher than the standard 182 — making it particularly popular in the mountain West and among pilots who regularly operate in high-density-altitude environments. The Turbo 182 retains the standard Skylane's reputation for docile handling, generous useful load (typically 1,100-1,200 pounds depending on equipment), and forgiving flight characteristics that have made the 182 family one of general aviation's most successful designs. With a cruise speed around 155-165 knots true airspeed at altitude and range exceeding 800 nautical miles, it occupies a sweet spot for cross-country personal and business flying. The fixed-gear simplicity (in most variants) keeps operating costs reasonable compared to retractable-gear competitors, while the turbocharger provides genuine go-anywhere capability without the complexity of a twin. SkyMeter has tracked 27 flights across 4 airframes and 2 operators, with STEELE RAYMOND M the largest observed operator.