Cessna 206 Review
The Cessna 206 is often referred to as the Stationair, a name that denotes its versatility and capability. This single-engine, high-wing aircraft has been a favorite among pilots for decades. It’s sought after for both personal and commercial use due to its performance and reliability.
Design and Build
The Cessna 206 features a rugged airframe, which is part of its charm. Its fixed landing gear and strong build make it ideal for landing on rough fields or runways. The high-wing design improves visibility from the cockpit and provides better ground clearance.
The aircraft seats up to six people, including the pilot, which makes it ideal for small group travels or air-taxi operations. The cabin is spacious with large windows offering excellent views during the flight.
Engine and Performance
The Cessna 206 typically comes equipped with a Lycoming IO-540 engine. This engine delivers around 300 horsepower, giving the aircraft strong takeoff performance. It has a maximum speed of approximately 174 knots and a cruising speed closer to 158 knots.
The range of the Cessna 206 is another highlight. It can cover around 730 nautical miles with full fuel tanks. This range allows for long-distance flights without frequent stops, which adds to its utility for both private and commercial use.
Cargo and Utility
One of the defining features of the Cessna 206 is its cargo capacity. It boasts substantial useful load capacity, often over 1,500 pounds. This makes it highly effective for transporting goods and equipment, in addition to passengers.
The aircraft also has large cargo doors, which ease the loading and unloading process. This makes it particularly useful for operations in remote areas where logistical efficiency is crucial.
Avionics and Controls
The Cessna 206 is often equipped with modern avionics, which can include the Garmin G1000 system. This suite provides pilots with advanced navigational capabilities, enhancing safety and situational awareness. The aircraft’s controls are intuitive, responding predictably to pilot inputs.
Several versions of the 206 offer autopilot systems, reducing pilot workload on longer flights. These features make the aircraft suitable for a range of operations, from leisure flying to more demanding commercial tasks.
Safety and Reliability
Safety has always been a cornerstone of Cessna’s design philosophy. The 206 model includes various safety features such as sturdy airframes and reliable engine performance. Its high-wing design also provides additional protection during landings.
Reliability is another strong point of the Cessna 206. The Lycoming engines are known for their 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 stands at roughly 15-20 gallons per hour, depending on the flight conditions. Maintenance costs, although relatively low, are a consideration for frequent flyers.
Insurance and hangar fees also add to the total operational cost. However, the aircraft’s reliability and multi-role capability generally justify the expenses for those who require such versatility.
Market and Availability
As a popular model, the Cessna 206 holds its value well in the market. Both new and used aircraft are available, with many operators opting for pre-owned models to reduce acquisition costs. The availability of parts and service facilities further supports its strong market presence.
The aircraft is in demand for use cases ranging from private leisure flying to bush planes and even air ambulances in some regions. Its blend of performance, versatility, and reliability appeals to a broad spectrum of aviation enthusiasts.