This 1998 Cessna 182S Skylane Is a Multi-Use ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

Garmin glass upgrades, complete logs, and rock-solid ownership pedigree highlight versatile workhorse.

FLYING Staff

Wednesday, August 19, 2026 at 01:30 PM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

1998 Cessna 182S Skylane [Credit: Lone Mountain Aircraft]

Key Takeaways:

The article highlights a 1998 Cessna 182S Skylane as its "Top Pick," praising the model's reputation as aviation's "Swiss Army knife" for its versatility in hauling, short-field performance, and handling.
This specific aircraft is meticulously maintained with 1,780 hours total time, zero damage history, a reliable Lycoming IO-540 engine with recent enhancements, and a useful load of 1,178 pounds.
It features a thoroughly modernized IFR flight deck, including dual Garmin G5s, a GTN 750 GPS/nav/comm, a GFC 500 digital autopilot, ADS-B In/Out, active traffic, and a JPI EDM 900 engine management system, priced at $299,900.

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Every day, the team at Aircraft For Sale chooses an airplane that catches our attention because it is unique, a good deal, or has other qualities we find interesting. You can read Aircraft For Sale: Today’s Top Pick at FLYINGMag.com daily.

Today’s Top Pick is a 1998 Cessna 182S Skylane.

Regarded as aviation’s ultimate Swiss Army knife, the Cessna 182 Skylane holds a legendary reputation for its remarkable hauling capability, short-field prowess, and straightforward handling characteristics. It is an airplane that comfortably bridges the gap between a dependable trainer and high-performance, cross-country traveler, making it a perennial favorite for both families and backcountry adventurers.

Based in Ontario, this exceptionally maintained 1998 airframe comes to the market with 1,780 flight hours since new and zero damage history. The exterior wears a classic Cessna Skylane scheme with a white base and navy, grey, and red accents, further enhanced by paint-matched wheel pants, matching spinner, and Whelen LED lighting. Despite its Canadian location, it offers a simple N-registration process for prospective U.S. buyers.

Under the cowling rests a dependable Lycoming IO-540-AB1A5 engine, also showing 1,780 hours since new with consistently strong compressions reported at its recent annual. The powerplant has been thoughtfully enhanced with a SureFly magneto and a Sky-Tec lightweight starter, and it turns a McCauley three-blade propeller that has logged 765 hours since its last overhaul. With a useful load of 1,178 pounds, the aircraft easily accommodates passengers and luggage for longer trips.

1998 Cessna 182S Skylane [Credit: Lone Mountain Aircraft]

Stepping into the flight deck reveals a thoroughly modernized IFR environment tailored to reduce pilot workload and maximize situational awareness. The panel has been transformed with dual Garmin G5s and a Garmin GTN 750 GPS/nav/comm, all seamlessly tied to a highly capable Garmin GFC 500 digital autopilot. Additional technology includes a Garmin GTX 345R transponder for ADS-B In and Out, Garmin GTS 800 Active Traffic, Garmin Flight Stream 210 for wireless connectivity, and JPI EDM 900 engine management system. Passengers will also enjoy a clean and comfortable gray leather interior.

Listed at $299,900, this 1998 Cessna 182S Skylane presents an outstanding opportunity to own a meticulously upgraded, turnkey example of general aviation’s most versatile single.

If you’re exploring ownership options, FLYING Finance can help get you airborne. Use our airplane loan calculator to estimate your monthly payments, or connect with an aviation finance expert at flyingfinance.com.