Used Aircraft Guide: Cessna 195 Businessliner

Mid-century classic shares several features familiar to pilots of newer aircraft.

Jonathan Welsh

Monday, March 30, 2026 at 08:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Steve Allen has logged 1,500 hours in this 195, which he bought 18 years ago. [Credit: Glenn Watson]

Key Takeaways:

Chris Thomsen, initially looking for a modern family utility plane, was unexpectedly captivated by the vintage charm of the 1947 Cessna 195 Businessliner at EAA AirVenture, ultimately purchasing one.
Despite its age and taildragger design, the Cessna 195 proves to be a practical and capable aircraft for family and business travel, offering a spacious cabin, decent cruise speed, and a useful load of 1,000 pounds.
Operating a 195 requires specific knowledge of radial engine procedures, such as manually pulling the propeller to prevent hydraulic lock, and considerable practice to master its ground handling due to limited forward visibility.
The rarity of the Cessna 195 means that joining its dedicated owner's club is highly beneficial for finding available aircraft, accessing maintenance expertise, and gaining operational support.

See a mistake? Contact us.

How does one go shopping for a Piper PA-32 Cherokee Six and wind up flying home in a 1947 Cessna 195 Businessliner?

Ask Chris Thomsen, who was on the lookout in 2013 for an airplane with more muscle than the Piper Arrow he was flying. As his family and baggage requirements grew, the Arrow gradually revealed the limitations of its useful load. The bigger, more-powerful six-place Piper would be a sensible solution.