Cessna 206 Review

I remember the first time I flew in a Cessna 206 – we were headed to a grass strip in Montana with camping gear and enough supplies for a week. The airplane swallowed everything we brought without complaint. The Cessna 206, often called the Stationair, has been a favorite among pilots for decades, and after that trip, I understood why.

Design and Build

The Cessna 206 features a rugged airframe – that’s part of its charm. Fixed landing gear and strong construction make it ideal for landing on rough fields or unimproved runways. The high-wing design improves cockpit visibility and provides better ground clearance.

The aircraft seats up to six people including the pilot, making it ideal for small group travel or air-taxi operations. The cabin is spacious with large windows offering excellent views during flight.

Engine and Performance

The Cessna 206 typically comes equipped with a Lycoming IO-540 engine delivering around 300 horsepower. This gives the aircraft strong takeoff performance. Maximum speed is approximately 174 knots with cruising speed closer to 158 knots.

Range is another highlight. It can cover around 730 nautical miles with full fuel, allowing long-distance flights without frequent stops. That utility is what makes the 206 valuable for both private and commercial use.

Cargo and Utility

One defining feature is cargo capacity. The 206 boasts substantial useful load capacity, often over 1,500 pounds. This makes it highly effective for transporting goods and equipment in addition to passengers.

Large cargo doors ease loading and unloading – particularly useful for operations in remote areas where logistical efficiency matters. Bush operators love this airplane for good reason.

Avionics and Controls

Modern 206s often feature the Garmin G1000 system. This suite provides advanced navigational capabilities, enhancing safety and situational awareness. The controls are intuitive, responding predictably to pilot inputs.

Several versions offer autopilot systems, reducing pilot workload on longer flights. These features make the aircraft suitable for everything from leisure flying to demanding commercial operations.

Safety and Reliability

Safety has always been central to Cessna’s design philosophy. The 206 includes sturdy airframes and reliable engine performance. The high-wing design also provides additional protection during landings.

Reliability is another strong point. Lycoming engines are known for durability and relatively low maintenance requirements – crucial for operators in remote or rugged environments.

Variants

• Cessna 206H: Known as the Stationair, offers robust utility and performance, commonly used for passenger and cargo transport.
• T206H: Turbocharged variant offering higher performance, particularly valued in high-altitude operations.
• P206: Known as the Super Skylane, primarily a personal aircraft with enhanced comfort features.

Each variant caters to different needs, from heavy lifting and rough-field operations to comfortable personal use.

Operational Costs

Operating a Cessna 206 involves several cost factors. Fuel consumption runs roughly 15-20 gallons per hour depending on conditions. Maintenance costs, although relatively low, are a consideration for frequent flyers.

Insurance and hangar fees add to total operational cost. However, the aircraft’s reliability and multi-role capability generally justify the expenses for those needing such versatility.

Market and Availability

As a popular model, the Cessna 206 holds its value well. Both new and used aircraft are available, with many operators choosing pre-owned models to reduce acquisition costs. Parts availability and service facilities support its strong market presence.

The aircraft is in demand for uses ranging from private leisure flying to bush planes and air ambulances. Its blend of performance, versatility, and reliability appeals to a broad spectrum of aviation enthusiasts. That’s what makes the 206 so endearing to pilots worldwide.

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