Cessna 182 Skylane Aircraft Financing

Finance the Ultimate Four-Seat Cross-Country Aircraft

The Cessna 182 Skylane combines excellent performance, payload capacity, and versatility, making it one of aviation's most popular aircraft. Whether you're upgrading from a trainer or purchasing your first capable cross-country machine, we provide specialized Cessna 182 financing solutions with competitive rates and flexible terms.

Cessna 182 Skylane Specifications & Performance

Specification	Details
Category	Piston Single-Engine
Price Range	$120,000 - $550,000
Typical Used Price	$280,000
Engine	Lycoming O-540 (230 hp)
Cruise Speed	145 knots
Range	915 nm
Seats	4
Useful Load	1,015 lbs
Service Ceiling	18,100 ft

Why Finance a Cessna 182 Skylane?

• Excellent Cross-Country Performance - 145-knot cruise with 900+ nm range
• Superior Payload Capacity - 1,015 lbs useful load handles four adults plus fuel
• Strong Resale Values - Consistent market demand supports favorable loan terms
• Versatile Mission Profile - Ideal for personal, business, and training use
• Fixed Gear Simplicity - Lower insurance and maintenance costs than retractable gear aircraft

Cessna 182 Financing Options

Competitive Interest Rates

• New Cessna 182 Skylane: Starting at 6.5% APR
• Late-model used (2010+): Rates from 6.75% APR
• Older models (1980s-2000s): Rates from 7.5% APR
• Terms up to 20 years available

Flexible Down Payment Options

• As low as 15% down for newer aircraft
• 20% down typical for used models
• Higher down payments may qualify for better rates
• Refinance options to access equity

Ownership Economics: Understanding Cessna 182 Operating Costs

The Cessna 182 represents excellent value for serious cross-country flying. Understanding true ownership economics is essential for making informed financing decisions and budgeting for long-term aircraft ownership.

Direct Operating Costs (DOC) Breakdown

Based on 120 flight hours annually (typical recreational owner use):

• Fuel Consumption: 11-13 GPH cruise (145 knots), approximately $1,584-1,872/year at $4.50/gallon
• Oil & Additives: $240-360/year for regular oil changes and engine conditioning
• Engine Reserve: $5,400-7,200/year (reserve for $60,000-80,000 overhaul over 2,000 TBO hours)
• Airframe & Systems Reserve: $2,400-3,600/year for inspections and component maintenance
• Avionics Maintenance: $480-720/year for panel systems and certification

Total Direct Operating Cost: Approximately $10,104-13,752 annually, or $84-115 per flight hour for 120 hours/year.

Fixed Annual Costs

• Hangar/Tie-Down: $2,400-3,600/year ($200-300/month)
• Insurance: $2,400-3,600/year ($20-30/month for private owner)
• Annual Inspection: $1,200-1,800/year
• Registration & Taxes: $250-400/year

Total Annual Ownership Cost Example

For a $280,000 Cessna 182 with 120 flight hours/year and 20% down ($56,000):

• Direct Operating Costs: $11,928
• Hangar/Storage: $3,000
• Insurance: $3,000
• Annual Inspection: $1,500
• Registration/Taxes: $325
• Total Fixed + Variable: $19,753/year (~$165/hour)

Add loan payments (~$1,300-1,500/month with 20% down) and total ownership cost reaches approximately $35,353-37,353 annually—or roughly $295-311 per flight hour, making the Cessna 182 one of the best values for capable cross-country flying.

Maintenance Timeline & Service Intervals

The Cessna 182's rugged Lycoming O-540 engine is known for reliability when properly maintained. Understanding scheduled maintenance prevents costly surprises.

100-Hour & Annual Inspection Cycles

100-Hour Inspection: Required for training aircraft, optional for private owners. Costs $800-1,200 for thorough systems check.

Annual Inspection: Mandatory regardless of flying hours, $1,200-1,800 including comprehensive condition assessment.

500-Hour Service Interval

At 500 flight hours (approximately 4 years of 120-hour/year use):

• Spark plug replacement: $400-600
• Engine oil analysis and potential issues: $600-900
• Propeller inspection/overhaul: $1,500-2,500
• Landing gear inspection (fixed gear has minimal maintenance): $200-400
• Total 500-hour service: $2,700-4,400

1,000-Hour Major Service & TBO Planning

The Lycoming O-540 engine has a 2,000-hour TBO, making the 1,000-hour inspection a critical maintenance point:

• Engine tear-down inspection: $2,000-3,500
• Prop major overhaul (if needed): $2,500-4,000
• Alternator/electrical system replacement: $1,200-1,800
• Avionics and systems certification: $600-1,000
• Total 1,000-hour major service: $6,300-10,300

Engine Overhaul Costs (TBO at 2,000 Hours)

The Lycoming O-540 is a workhorse engine with proven reliability:

• Factory-Authorized Overhaul: $40,000-56,000
• Core Exchange/Rebuilt Option: $32,000-48,000 (more economical)
• Parts, labor, and accessories: Adds $3,000-6,000
• Reserve Strategy: Budget $20-25/hour of operation ($2,400-3,000/year for 120-hour users)

Cessna 182 Financing Rates & Market Conditions

Cessna 182 financing is widely available due to strong market demand and proven resale values. Here's what to expect in 2024-2025:

Rate Ranges by Aircraft Age

• New Cessna 182: Starting 6.25%-6.75% APR
• Late-Model Used (2010+): 6.75%-7.5% APR with modern avionics
• Mid-Range (2000-2010): 7.25%-8.25% APR
• Older Models (pre-2000): 7.75%-9.0% APR; engine time toward TBO heavily impacts rates

Factors Affecting Your Interest Rate

• Credit Score: 0.25%-0.5% rate reduction per 20-point credit improvement above 680
• Down Payment: 20%+ down qualifies for 0.25%-0.75% rate reduction
• Engine Time: Aircraft approaching 1,500+ hours toward TBO may face +0.5%-1% premium
• Training History: Training-use aircraft add +0.25%-1% to rates
• Avionics Status: Modern glass panels support lower rates; older steam gauges add +0.25%-0.5%

Sample Financing Scenarios

Scenario 1 - Well-Qualified Buyer: $280,000 aircraft, 20% down ($56,000), 15-year term, 7.0% APR = $1,629/month

Scenario 2 - First-Time Buyer: $250,000 aircraft, 25% down ($62,500), 20-year term, 7.75% APR = $1,286/month

Scenario 3 - Higher-Hour Aircraft (1,500+ hours): $200,000 aircraft, 25% down ($50,000), 15-year term, 8.25% APR = $1,097/month

Cessna 182 Ownership vs. Alternatives

Before committing to ownership, consider these alternatives for cross-country flying:

Ownership vs. Flying Club Membership

• Flying Club Cost: $90-120/hour all-inclusive (fuel, maintenance, insurance)
• Ownership Cost (182): $295-311/hour all-inclusive with loan payments
• Break-Even Point: Ownership becomes cheaper around 200+ hours annually
• Club Advantage: No capital required, less maintenance responsibility, aircraft variety
• Ownership Advantage: 24/7 availability, customization options, equity build-up

Aircraft Leasing & Leaseback Programs

Some owners reduce costs through leaseback arrangements:

• Leaseback Revenue: $70-110/hour when leased to flight schools (covers 40-60% of DOC)
• Typical Arrangement: Flight school handles bookings; owner gets rental income
• Advantage: Significantly reduces out-of-pocket ownership costs
• Considerations: Higher utilization increases wear; insurance implications for part-time operators

Red Flags & Lender Concerns for Cessna 182 Financing

When underwriting Cessna 182 financing, lenders evaluate these specific factors:

Aircraft-Specific Red Flags

• Engine Time: Engines with 1,500+ hours toward 2,000-hour TBO require immediate overhaul planning; lenders may discount value 10-15%
• Propeller History: Complete overhaul records mandatory; undocumented repairs raise concerns
• Corrosion History: Any corrosion in engine compartment or fuel tanks requires detailed inspection
• Damage History: Even repaired damage must be thoroughly documented with Service Difficulty Reports (SDRs)

Borrower-Specific Concerns

• Pilot Experience: Private license with 100+ hours preferred; commercial operation adds +0.5%-1% to rates
• Training Intent: Intent to use for flight training may add +0.25%-1% to rates

Frequently Asked Questions - Cessna 182 Skylane Financing

Understanding the total cost of Cessna 182 ownership helps you make informed financing decisions. Beyond your monthly loan payment, anticipate these real-world operating expenses:

Direct Operating Costs (Per Hour)

• Fuel: 9-10 gallons/hour at $6.00/gallon = $54-60/hour
• Oil & Additives: $3-5/hour
• Engine Reserve (TBO 2,000 hours): $40,000 overhaul / 2,000 hours = $20/hour
• Airframe & Prop Maintenance: $15-20/hour
• Total Direct Operating Cost: $92-105/hour

Fixed Annual Costs

• Annual Inspection: $1,800-2,800 (basic airframe inspection)
• Insurance: $2,200-2,800/year (varies significantly with pilot experience)
• Hangar or Tie-Down: $2,400-9,600/year ($200-800/month depending on location)
• Database Subscriptions: $600-1,200/year (Garmin/ForeFlight/IFR charts)
• Registration & Miscellaneous: $500/year
• Total Fixed Costs: $7,500-17,000/year

Annual Cost Example (100 Hours/Year)

For a typical owner flying 100 hours annually on a $250,000 Cessna 182 with 20% down:

• Loan Payment: $1,420/month × 12 = $17,040/year (7.5% APR, 20-year term, $200,000 financed)
• Fixed Costs: $12,000/year (mid-range estimate)
• Variable Costs: 100 hours × $100/hour = $10,000/year
• Total Annual Cost: $39,040
• Cost Per Hour: $390/hour (all-in)

At 150 hours per year, your hourly cost drops to approximately $285/hour as fixed costs are spread across more flight hours. High-utilization owners (200+ hours/year) can see costs below $250/hour.

Cessna 182 Skylane Maintenance Timeline & Budget Planning

Understanding the maintenance timeline helps you budget for major expenses beyond regular operating costs. Here's what to expect over your ownership period:

Routine Maintenance Intervals

• Every 50 Hours: Oil change ($150-250), filter replacement, general inspection
• Every 100 Hours: More comprehensive inspection if used commercially ($500-800)
• Annual Inspection: Required every 12 months regardless of hours ($1,800-3,500 depending on squawks)
• Every 500 Hours: Detailed inspection of landing gear, control surfaces, cables ($2,500-4,000)

Engine Overhaul Timeline

The Lycoming O-540 engine has a TBO (Time Between Overhaul) of 2,000 hours. Most owners reach this milestone in:

• Low-time flyers (50 hours/year): 40 years (calendar aging may require overhaul sooner)
• Average flyers (100 hours/year): 20 years
• High-time flyers (200 hours/year): 10 years

Engine Overhaul Cost: $38,000-45,000 for factory overhaul; $32,000-38,000 for reputable field overhaul

Major Airframe Maintenance (10-15 Year Intervals)

• Paint & Interior Refresh: $15,000-25,000 (maintains resale value significantly)
• Avionics Upgrades: $20,000-50,000 for modern glass panel installation
• Windshield Replacement: $3,500-6,000 (due to crazing or cracks)
• Landing Gear Overhaul: $8,000-12,000 (inspect for corrosion, replace bushings)

Unscheduled Maintenance Budget

Set aside $2,000-4,000 annually for unexpected repairs: magneto replacement ($1,500), cylinder work ($2,500-5,000 per jug), starter/alternator failures ($800-1,500), or avionics repairs ($500-3,000).

Cessna 182 Skylane Financing Rates: Historical Context & Current Market

Aircraft financing rates fluctuate with broader economic conditions, but the Cessna 182's strong market position typically secures favorable terms compared to less popular aircraft.

2024-2025 Market Rates

• New Cessna 182 Skylane ($550,000+): 6.25-6.99% APR for well-qualified buyers
• Late-Model Used (2015-2024, $350K-500K): 6.50-7.49% APR
• Mid-Age Used (2005-2014, $250K-350K): 6.99-7.99% APR
• Older Models (1980-2004, $150K-250K): 7.50-8.99% APR

Rate Factors & Their Impact

Credit Score Impact:

• 760+ credit score: Qualify for best available rates (base rate)
• 720-759 credit score: Add 0.25-0.50% to base rate
• 680-719 credit score: Add 0.50-1.00% to base rate
• Below 680: Add 1.00-2.00% or may require larger down payment

Down Payment Impact:

• 10-15% down: Standard rates apply
• 20-25% down: May reduce rate by 0.25-0.50%
• 30%+ down: May reduce rate by 0.50-0.75%

Aircraft Age Impact:

• 0-5 years old: Best rates available
• 6-10 years old: Add 0.25% typically
• 11-20 years old: Add 0.50-0.75%
• 21-30 years old: Add 0.75-1.25%
• 31+ years old: Add 1.25-2.00% (condition and avionics matter more)

Term Length Considerations

Longer terms reduce monthly payments but increase total interest paid:

• 15-year term at 7.5%: $1,854/month on $200K financed = $133,720 total interest
• 20-year term at 7.5%: $1,611/month on $200K financed = $186,640 total interest
• Savings with 15-year term: $52,920 in interest (but $243/month higher payment)

Cessna 182 Skylane Financing vs. Alternatives

Before committing to aircraft ownership, compare the total cost against alternatives. Here's how ownership stacks up for a typical 100-hour-per-year pilot:

Full Ownership (Financed Aircraft)

• Down Payment: $50,000 (20% on $250,000 aircraft)
• Monthly Loan Payment: $1,420 (7.5% APR, 20 years)
• Fixed Costs: $1,000/month average (insurance, hangar, annual)
• Variable Costs: $100/hour × 100 hours = $833/month average
• Total Monthly Cost: $3,253 ($39,040/year)
• Effective Cost Per Hour: $390/hour (100 hours/year)
• Equity Building: You own a $250,000 asset that appreciates or depreciates

Flying Club Membership

• Initiation Fee: $5,000-15,000 (often refundable when you leave)
• Monthly Dues: $200-400/month
• Hourly Rate (Wet): $145-165/hour for Cessna 182
• Total Cost (100 hours/year): $300/month + ($155 × 100)/12 = $1,592/month average ($19,100/year)
• Effective Cost Per Hour: $191/hour
• Pros: Lower upfront cost, shared maintenance burden, no resale concerns
• Cons: Scheduling conflicts, no customization, no equity

Aircraft Leasing (Leaseback or Dry Lease)

• Monthly Lease Payment: $2,500-3,500/month for Cessna 182
• Insurance: You provide insurance ($2,500-3,500/year = $250-300/month)
• Fuel & Hourly Costs: $100/hour × 100 hours = $833/month
• Total Monthly Cost: $3,583-4,633 ($43,000-55,600/year)
• Effective Cost Per Hour: $430-556/hour
• Pros: No maintenance responsibility, predictable costs, walk away anytime
• Cons: Highest cost option, no equity, limited customization

When Ownership Makes Sense

Cessna 182 ownership becomes financially attractive when:

• You fly 75+ hours per year consistently (fixed costs spread over more hours)
• You value aircraft availability and customization (your airplane, your schedule)
• You plan to own for 5+ years (amortize acquisition and upgrade costs)
• You can use for business purposes (tax deductions significantly reduce net cost)
• Your local flying club has poor aircraft availability or limited 182 access
• You're building equity in a well-maintained appreciating asset

Below 50 hours per year, flying clubs or fractional ownership typically provide better value unless you highly value having your own aircraft available at all times.

Red Flags When Financing a Cessna 182 Skylane

Lenders scrutinize certain aspects of Cessna 182s more carefully. Be aware of these red flags that can delay or derail financing approval:

Engine Time & Condition

• High Engine Time: Engines with 1,500+ hours since major overhaul (SMOH) face scrutiny. Above 1,800 hours, lenders may require larger down payments (25-30%) or escrow for overhaul
• Compressions Below 70/80: Any cylinder below 70 on compression test raises concerns about imminent engine work
• Oil Analysis Trends: Increasing metal content (iron, chromium, lead) suggests internal wear
• Calendar Age: Engines older than 15 years since overhaul, regardless of hours, require detailed inspection

Damage History & Structural Concerns

• Substantial Damage History: Any incident exceeding $50,000 in repairs or involving structural damage significantly reduces value and insurability
• Landing Gear Damage: Firewall cracks, bent mounts, or improper repairs from gear-up landings or hard landings
• Corrosion: Wing spar corrosion (especially in older models), belly corrosion from battery acid, or tail section corrosion from moisture
• Hail Damage: Even minor skin damage can be expensive to repair and affects resale

Logbook & Maintenance Records

• Missing Logbooks: Incomplete aircraft, engine, or prop logs make aircraft difficult or impossible to finance
• Unapproved Modifications: Non-STC'd or field-approval modifications without proper FAA documentation
• Outstanding ADs: Airworthiness Directives not complied with or improperly documented
• Deferred Maintenance: Multiple "deferred items" from recent annuals suggest neglect
• Logbook Irregularities: Altered entries, missing annual signoffs, or questionable A&P signatures

Avionics & Equipment Concerns

• Non-ADS-B Compliant: Aircraft without ADS-B Out require immediate $3,000-6,000 upgrade for most operations
• Ancient Avionics: Steam gauges with 1970s-80s radios make aircraft harder to finance and reduce resale value
• Inoperative Equipment: Multiple items on the INOP list suggest maintenance neglect
• Autopilot Condition: Non-functional autopilots cost $8,000-25,000 to repair or replace

Pre-Buy Inspection Red Flags

• Seller Resistance: Sellers who refuse pre-buy inspections or limit access to their mechanic
• Multiple Squawks: Pre-buy revealing $15,000+ in needed repairs may require renegotiation or deal termination
• Undisclosed Issues: Significant problems not mentioned in listing (interior smoke smell, fuselage buckles, wing damage)

Market & Title Concerns

• Liens on Title: Existing loans or liens must be cleared before transfer
• Overpriced Aircraft: Aircraft priced 15%+ above market may not appraise, requiring larger down payment
• Limited Market Appeal: Unusual configurations or modifications that limit resale market

A thorough pre-purchase inspection by an experienced Cessna mechanic (budget $1,500-2,500) is essential. Walk away from aircraft with multiple red flags - plenty of well-maintained 182s exist on the market.

Frequently Asked Questions - Cessna 182 Financing

What credit score do I need to finance a Cessna 182?

Lenders typically require a minimum credit score of 680-700 for Cessna 182 financing. Borrowers with scores above 720 receive the best rates. The 182's strong resale value and market demand help secure favorable financing terms for qualified borrowers.

How much down payment is required for a Cessna 182?

Down payments typically range from 15-20% for used Cessna 182s and 10-15% for new models. Well-maintained aircraft with modern avionics may qualify for lower down payments, while high-time airframes may require 20-25%. Your credit profile and liquidity also influence down payment requirements.

Can I finance a high-time Cessna 182?

Yes, Cessna 182s with up to 12,000 total airframe hours can be financed with good maintenance records. Lenders focus heavily on engine time (preferably under 1,200 hours since major overhaul) and overall mechanical condition. Complete logbooks and recent annual inspections are essential.

What loan terms are available for Cessna 182 financing?

Typical loan terms range from 15-20 years for newer models and 12-15 years for older aircraft. Amortization can extend to 20 years, with balloon payments common at the end of shorter loan terms. Your final term depends on aircraft age, value, and your financial profile.

How does the turbocharger affect Cessna 182 financing?

Turbocharged 182s (T182/182T) often have slightly higher insurance costs and maintenance reserves, but these don't significantly impact financing. Lenders view them favorably due to enhanced performance capabilities and strong market demand, especially in high-altitude regions.

Can I include a glass cockpit upgrade in my 182 financing?

Yes, avionics upgrades like Garmin G500/G600/G3X installations can often be rolled into your purchase loan or accomplished through a refinance. Modern glass cockpits typically add value exceeding their cost, making them attractive to both lenders and buyers.

What insurance is required for a financed Cessna 182?

Lenders require liability coverage (minimum $1M) and hull insurance covering the full loan amount. Annual premiums range from $1,800-$3,500 depending on pilot experience, hull value, and whether the aircraft is used for business or personal purposes. Commercial use increases premiums.

How quickly can I get approved for Cessna 182 financing?

Pre-qualification typically takes 24-48 hours with basic information. Full underwriting requires 7-14 business days with complete documentation including tax returns, financial statements, and aircraft details. Closing can occur within 3-4 weeks of application, sometimes faster for experienced borrowers with clean credit.

Can I finance a Cessna 182 for business use?

Absolutely. The Cessna 182 is commonly used for business travel, and business use can provide significant tax advantages including Section 179 depreciation, bonus depreciation, and operating expense deductions. You'll need to document business use and maintain proper records. Consult your tax advisor for specific benefits.

What happens if I want to upgrade to a different aircraft later?

You can sell your Cessna 182 at any time and use equity toward your next aircraft. The 182's strong resale values often mean you build equity quickly, especially if you maintain it well and make strategic improvements. Some lenders offer streamlined refinancing or trade-up programs if upgrading within their portfolio.

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