Cessna Turbo Skylane
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The Turbo Skylane flown for this report was outfitted with the Nav II package, the G1000 integrated avionics suite with dual built-in WAAS navigators, Mode S transponder, the GFC 700 dual channel digital autopilot and digital AHRS and air data. The airplane was also outfitted with Garmin Synthetic Vision Technology displayed on the primary flight display of the G1000 system, a software upgrade expected to cost just less than $10,000 and expected to be available by the time you read this. It was also equipped with the Cessna built-in four-port oxygen system, heated prop, tinted Rosen sun visors, AmSafe seat belt airbags for all four seats, leather interior, electronic instrument flight charts, XM Weather and audio, TIS traffic, terrain advisory and electronic engine monitoring.
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During our lunch the scattered cloud layer had been doing what it normally does in the high country on an active afternoon, getting higher. The layer that a few hours ago was just above us at 8,000 feet now looked a lot higher. We decided to go back VFR, so we picked 11,500 feet, hoping that would put us on top. When we were still below the layer, we tried 13,500, which, as it turned out, would have put us in the middle of the layer (not recommended for VFR). We finally climbed to 15,500 and were on top, in smooth air and seeing a 40-knot push.
The built-in oxygen system in the Turbo Skylane, like just about everything else on the airplane, is very nicely done. The entire system is housed in a panel overhead. Plug in, move the lever to "on," and you’re good to go.
At that altitude with the power set at the high cruise of 28 inches and 2400 rpm, we were seeing 168 knots true and a groundspeed of right around 200 knots at just over around 17 gph. At 20,000 feet we would have gained a few knots, to around 175 knots true, and the fuel flow would have been similar.
The flight gave us great insight into just why the Turbo version of the Skylane has become so popular. On the way up to Marfa, we stayed low and acted like a normally aspirated airplane. On the way back we flew high, using the turbocharger to take advantage of a great tailwind and the smooth air above the cloud layer. It was the best of both worlds.
Long History, Bright Future
Versatility and utility have been the dual messages of the Skylane from the get-go. And with today’s 182, you get all of that along with the quality of life and safety improvements that modern engineering and technology have brought along for the ride.
Today’s Skylane is a fitting continuation of one of the most storied models in aviation history, a robust airplane that simply gets done whatever job you throw at it while giving its pilots all the modern advantages. No wonder it remains such a popular personal airplane.
To learn more about the Turbo Skylane, visit cessna.com.
Also read this related article:
Why the Skylane Endures
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