Cessna 206 Review

The Cessna 206, a single-engine, high-wing aircraft, is popular for its versatility and reliability. Known for its rugged design, it’s often used in a variety of roles, from private aviation to commercial operations. Here, we’ll dive into the specifics of the Cessna 206, examining its features, performance, and practical uses.

Design and Structure

The Cessna 206 features a high-wing design, which provides excellent visibility for pilots and passengers. This is particularly beneficial for surveying and photography operations. The aircraft’s robust construction includes a semi-monocoque fuselage structure, which is both durable and lightweight. This allows for a higher payload capacity while maintaining structural integrity.

The landing gear is fixed, contributing to the aircraft’s lower maintenance needs. This makes the Cessna 206 suited for operations in rugged environments, such as remote airstrips and undeveloped terrain. Additionally, the large doors and spacious cabin facilitate easy loading and unloading of passengers and cargo.

Performance Capabilities

Powered by a Continental IO-550-F engine, the Cessna 206 delivers a maximum cruise speed of approximately 161 knots. This powerplant provides reliable performance and efficiency, essential for both private and commercial uses. The aircraft’s range is approximately 730 nautical miles, allowing for substantial non-stop travel distances.

The Cessna 206 has a takeoff distance of about 1,500 feet and a landing distance of 1,100 feet, making it suitable for short runways and less-than-ideal conditions. With a maximum takeoff weight of 3,600 pounds, it can carry six occupants, including the pilot, along with a significant amount of cargo.

Engine: Continental IO-550-F
Maximum Cruise Speed: 161 knots
Range: 730 nautical miles
Takeoff Distance: 1,500 feet
Landing Distance: 1,100 feet
Maximum Takeoff Weight: 3,600 pounds

Cockpit and Avionics

The cockpit of the Cessna 206 is user-friendly, equipped with the Garmin G1000 NXi avionics suite. This modern avionics system enhances situational awareness and includes features such as synthetic vision technology, traffic advisory systems, and weather radar. The layout is designed to be intuitive, making it easier for pilots to access critical information quickly.

Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS) is integrated into the avionics suite, providing autopilot capabilities. This feature is particularly useful for reducing pilot workload during long flights. Additionally, the aircraft is equipped with digital engine monitoring, ensuring real-time data on engine performance and health.

Avionics Suite: Garmin G1000 NXi
Features: Synthetic vision, traffic advisory, weather radar
Automatic Flight Control System: Integrated
Engine Monitoring: Digital

Interior Comfort and Space

The interior of the Cessna 206 is designed with comfort in mind. The cabin can be configured to accommodate either passengers or cargo, thanks to its flexible seating arrangements. Seats are ergonomically designed and offer ample legroom, contributing to a comfortable flight experience.

The aircraft’s cabin is also noteworthy for its soundproofing, which reduces engine and exterior noise, making for a quieter journey. Storage compartments are strategically placed to maximize space without compromising passenger comfort.

Seating Configuration: Flexible
Interior Noise: Reduced due to soundproofing
Storage: Ample and strategically placed

Utility and Versatility

One of the standout features of the Cessna 206 is its versatility. The aircraft is often used in various roles, including air taxi services, skydiving operations, and emergency medical services. Its ability to take off from and land on short, rough runways makes it invaluable for operations in remote areas.

The aircraft’s large cargo doors and spacious interior allow for easy reconfiguration, depending on the mission. Whether transporting passengers, carrying supplies, or accommodating stretchers, the Cessna 206 adapts to a wide range of needs.

Roles: Air taxi, skydiving, medical services
Runway Capability: Short and rough runways
Interior Configuration: Easily adaptable for various missions

Operational Costs and Maintenance

The operational costs of the Cessna 206 are reasonable, especially when considering its capabilities. Fuel efficiency is a highlight, with the aircraft consuming about 14-16 gallons per hour. Maintenance is straightforward due to the fixed landing gear and well-documented systems, making it an economical choice for both private owners and commercial operators.

Scheduled maintenance intervals are manageable, and the availability of parts is generally good, which minimizes downtime. This reliability and cost-effectiveness make the Cessna 206 a practical option for many aviation needs.

Fuel Consumption: 14-16 gallons per hour
Maintenance: Straightforward due to fixed gear
Part Availability: Generally good

Pilot and Operator Reviews

Pilots appreciate the Cessna 206 for its straightforward handling and reliable performance. The aircraft is forgiving, making it suitable for both seasoned pilots and those with less experience. Operators commend the aircraft for its low operational costs and versatility in various roles.

Users particularly highlight the spacious cabin and ease of loading, which are significant advantages in commercial operations. The modern avionics suite is another frequently mentioned positive aspect, contributing to overall flight safety and efficiency.

Handling: Forgiving and straightforward
Operational Costs: Low
Cabin Space: Spacious and easy to load
Avionics: Modern and efficient

Comparisons with Similar Aircraft

Compared to the Cessna 182, another popular high-wing aircraft, the Cessna 206 offers higher payload capacity and greater versatility. The 182 is often chosen for private use, but the 206’s larger cabin and more powerful engine make it better suited for commercial applications.

When put side-by-side with the Piper PA-32, the Cessna 206 stands out due to its rugged design and ability to operate in more challenging environments. While the PA-32 may offer a marginally more comfortable ride on paved runways, the 206’s versatility in different terrains gives it an edge in utility roles.

Cessna 182: Lower payload, less versatility
Piper PA-32: Comfortable but less rugged