Brian of Brian’s Flying Blog recently posted a very detailed response to an email he received regarding whether or not the Cessna 182 (Skylane) was harder to fly that the Cessna 172 (Skyhawk). His answer: Any private pilot should be able to fly a Cessna 182 with some instructions from a instructor who regularly flies one.
In general, Brian comments that the Cessna 182 is a great plane that can carry 4 people and baggage well but depending on the weight of the passengers and baggage, it may not be able to carry a full fuel tank. Another downside he describes is the fact that the plane is a bit nose heavy which is noticeable during flaring. However, the Cessna 182 is more roomier than the Cessna 172 and Brian says he was even able to fit someone in the back who was 6′ 8″.
Brian then provides a fairly detailed evaluation of the Cessna 182 for takeoffs, speed and slowing down, landing and flares, stalls, stability and carb heat usage and hence, the post is well worth a read by any pilot who plans to rent or fly one on a regular basis.
