Clyde Cessna, who later founded Cessna Aviation, first became fascinated with aircraft at an aviation show in 1911. Leveraging his experience in mechanics and automobile sales, he built his own plane from a kit and eventually became an accomplished pilot.
In 1916, Cessna was offered space in J.J. Jones Car Co.’s warehouse to construct aircraft under one rule – the first plane’s wings display the name “Jones-Six”. Despite challenges during World War I, he unveiled the Comet in 1917.
Cessna joined forces with Walter Beech and Lloyd Stearman in 1925 to establish the Travel Air Manufacturing Company. After a stint as President, he sought a more hands-on role in aircraft production.
He later founded the Cessna-Roos Company but was forced to shut down operations in 1931 due to declining sales. In 1933, encouraged by his nephew Dwane Wallace, Cessna reopened the business. This revival led to the creation of the company’s first twin-engine aircraft in 1938.
The demand for twin-engine planes soared with the outbreak of World War II, propelling Cessna Aircraft to new heights of success under the Wallace Brothers’ management.
Skywagon Success Within The Freight Industry
Aviation consists of more than personal and business aircraft. Many aircraft are used for industrial and utility purposes. Cessna, in particular, found success by developing its Skywagon series of aircraft and partnering with freight-forwarding companies that service assembly plants with urgent parts needs, materials transportation to remote sites, and specialized cargo like:
- Emergency items
- High-value goods
- Perishables
When not hauling cargo, Skywagons also double as air taxis. The 1965 Utilaline Cessnas, including the Super Skywagon, 185 Skywagon, and Cessna 180, offer spacious cargo areas, easy loading capabilities, and impressive performance specifications.
- Country of Origin: America
Cessna Skywagon 185 A-F Statistics
The following is detailed information for Cessna Skywagon 185 (1961):
- Maximum Speed: 145 kias
- Maximum Range: 561 nm
- Maximum Occupants: 6
- Range Of Years Manufactured: 1961-1985
- Total Aircraft Build: 4,448
- Current Operational Aircraft: 1,648
- Useful Load: 1,680 lbs.
- Average Sale Value: $187,837
- Average Days On Market For Sale: Unknown
- VREF Demand Rating: Join VREF Online
The following is detailed information for Cessna Skywagon A185F (1985):
- Maximum Speed: 155 kias
- Maximum Range: 645 nm
- Maximum Occupants: 6
- Range Of Years Manufactured: 1961-1985
- Total Aircraft Build: 4,448
- Current Operational Aircraft: 1,648
- Useful Load: 1,775 lbs.
- Average Sale Value: $361,954
- Average Days On Market For Sale: Unknown
- VREF Demand Rating: Join VREF Online
Operational Resources
Operations Manual
Maintenance Document
Local Resources
- Textron Aviation Inc. (Domestic and International Service Centers)
- Cessna Flyer Association
Manufacturer
Insurance
- Avemco
- AOPA Insurance
- BWI Aviation Insurance
- Falcon Aviation Insurance
- Travers Aviation Insurance
- USAA Aircraft Insurance For Pilots
Cessna Skywagon 185 A-F Details
Interior
The Cessna flying freighter offers a versatile cabin with spacious cargo areas and easy loading capabilities. The 185 Skywagon features configurations for passengers and luggage or equipment. The 185 can accommodate specialized cargo such as emergency items, high-value goods, and perishables, with options for various seating arrangements when used as air taxis.
Exterior
The Cessna 185 Skywagon is a versatile, single-engine aircraft designed for general aviation and utility operations. Introduced in 1961, this high-wing plane features a rugged conventional landing gear with a tailwheel, making it suitable for rough field operations. The Skywagon can accommodate up to 6 people and is known for its reliability and cargo-carrying capabilities.
Avionics
The following may or may not be available in Cessna Skywagon 185 A-F.
- King KX155 Digital Nav/Com
- King KX175B Nav/Com
- Arnav Star 5000 GPS
- King KT76A Transponder
Optional Equipment
The following optional equipment may or may not be available in Cessna Skywagon 185 A-F.
- Float Kit B
- Tail Cone Handles
- Left and Right Articulating Seats
- Priming System
- Heated Pitot
- Long Range Fuel
- Childseat
- Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT)
- Oxygen
Specifications
Cessna Skywagon 185A
The following may or may not be available in the 1961 Cessna Skywagon:
- Configuration: Single Engine, Piston, Tail Wheel
- Max Seats: 6
- Max Takeoff Weight: 3,350 lbs.
- Cruise: 147 kts
- Range: 645 nm
- Take-Off Run: 825 ft.
- Landing Roll: 610 ft.
- Wing Span: 35 ft. 10 in.
- Length: 25 ft. 8 in.
- Height: 7 ft. 9 in.
- Takeoff Run (50 ft.): 1,510 ft.
Cessna Skywagon A185F
The following may or may not be available in the 1985 Cessna Skywagon:
- Configuration: Single Engine, Piston, Tail Wheel
- Max Seats: 6
- Max Takeoff Weight: 3,350 lbs.
- Cruise: 147 kts
- Range: 645 nm
- Takeoff Run: 825 ft.
- Landing Roll: 610 ft.
- Wing Span: 35 ft. 10 in.
- Length: 25 ft. 8 in.
- Height: 7 ft. 9 in.
- Takeoff Run (50 ft.): 1,510 ft.
Cessna Skywagon 185 A-F Models
The following are variations of the Cessna Skywagon 185, ranging from the original model to later improvements.
Cessna 185 Skywagon
Powered by a Continental IO-470-F engine of 260 hp, this six-place, fixed landing gear utility aircraft was first certified in 1961. It has a gross weight of 3,300 lbs and features a conventional tailwheel configuration.
Cessna A185E Skywagon
This 1966 model introduced the more powerful Continental IO-520-D engine with 285 hp. It retains the six-seat layout and fixed landing gear, with a gross weight increase of 3,350 lbs. This aircraft features improved performance and payload capacity over its predecessor.
Cessna A185F Skywagon
Certified in 1973, the A185F is equipped with a Continental IO-520-D or IO-550-D engine of 300 hp. It has a gross weight of 3,350 lbs and incorporates various refinements to enhance its utility capabilities. This model became popular for bush flying and cargo operations.
Cessna T185 Skywagon
This turbocharged version features a Continental TSIO-520-D engine of 285 hp, offering improved high-altitude performance. It has a gross weight of 3,350 lbs and was designed for operations in mountainous terrain or hot climates.
Cessna U206G Stationair 6
While not a direct Skywagon variant, this model shares similarities with the 185 series. It features a Continental IO-520-F engine of 300 hp, a gross weight of 3,600 lbs, and offers the option of float or ski configurations for versatile operations.
Top Cessna Skywagon 185 A-F Questions
Explore commonly asked questions and answers about the Cessna Skywagon 185 A-F.
How Much Does The Cessna Skywagon 185 A-F Cost?
A pre-owned Cessna Skywagon 185 costs an average of $249,772.
When Was The Cessna 185 First Introduced?
The Cessna 185 was first introduced in 1961 as a more powerful version of the Cessna 180.
What Type Of Engine Does The Cessna 185 Use?
Most Cessna 185s are powered by a Continental IO-520 six-cylinder engine, typically producing 300 horsepower.
What Is The Seating Capacity Of A Cessna 185?
The standard configuration seats 6 people, including the pilot.
What Is The Cruising Speed Of A Cessna 185?
The typical cruising speed is around 140-150 knots (160-170 mph), depending on conditions and configuration.
What Is The Range Of A Cessna 185?
With standard fuel tanks, the range is approximately 750-800 nautical miles (860-920 miles).
Is The Cessna 185 Equipped With Floats Or Skis?
Yes, the Cessna 185 is often equipped with floats for water operations or skis for snow landings, making it highly versatile.
What’s The Difference Between A Cessna 180 & A Cessna 185?
The 185, introduced in 1961, 8 years after the 180, features a more powerful engine, slightly larger and heavier airframe, and generally better performance. Improvements include a higher useful load and climb rate. While both aircraft are versatile, the 185 was designed for more demanding utility operations, making it better suited for challenging tasks to meet more rigorous operational requirements.
How Much Horsepower Does A Cessna Skywagon Have?
The Cessna Skywagon 185 typically has 300 horsepower from a Continental IO-520 6-cylinder engine.
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