CESSNA 206 is a single-engine, high-wing, light aircraft developed by Cessna Aircraft Company. It is a versatile, rugged aircraft that has been in production for several decades and is widely used for a variety of roles, including personal flying, flight training, cargo transport, and even aerial survey and agricultural operations. The 206 is known for its reliability, solid performance, and capability to carry heavier loads compared to many other light aircraft, making it a popular choice among private pilots, operators in remote areas, and commercial aviation.
Key Features of the Cessna 206:
- First Flight: May 1964.
- Manufacturer: Cessna Aircraft Company.
- Engine: The Cessna 206 is typically powered by a Continental IO-520 or IO-550 engine, depending on the model, providing between 285 and 300 horsepower.
- Capacity: The aircraft can seat up to 6 passengers, including the pilot, making it more spacious than many other small aircraft in its class.
- Cruising Speed: Around 145 knots (167 mph or 270 km/h).
- Range: Approximately 890 nautical miles (1,650 km), depending on the specific configuration, fuel load, and conditions.
- Wingspan: 10.9 meters (35 feet 9 inches).
- Length: 8.2 meters (26 feet 11 inches).
- Height: 2.6 meters (8 feet 6 inches).
- Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 3,600 lbs (1,633 kg).
- Service Ceiling: 20,000 feet (6,096 meters).
Design and Performance:
- High-Wing Configuration: The Cessna 206 features a high-wing design, which provides excellent visibility for pilots, particularly when flying over terrain or conducting aerial surveys. The high wing also improves ground clearance, which is beneficial when operating on rough or unimproved airstrips.
- Rugged Construction: Built for durability, the Cessna 206 is known for its ability to operate in tough conditions, including remote locations with unpaved airstrips. It is used extensively for operations in rural or backcountry areas.
- Powerful Engine: With up to 300 horsepower, the Cessna 206 can carry heavy loads, making it ideal for operations such as cargo transport, passenger flights, and other utility roles.
- Landing Gear: The aircraft typically features tricycle landing gear, which makes it easier for new pilots to operate, especially on paved or grass runways.
- Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) Capabilities: The Cessna 206 offers good STOL performance, allowing it to operate from relatively short runways, which is ideal for backcountry flying and access to small airstrips.
Variants:
Over the years, the Cessna 206 has gone through several upgrades and improvements:
- Cessna 206 (Original Model): Introduced in 1964, the original Cessna 206 had a 285-horsepower engine and was designed as a more powerful and versatile version of the popular Cessna 172. It was capable of carrying more passengers and cargo than its smaller sibling.
- Cessna 206A (1965-1969): The A-model introduced slight refinements in design and performance, including a new engine and minor aerodynamic adjustments.
- Cessna 206B (1969-1977): This model introduced more powerful engines, improved interior features, and better flight performance. It was widely used for general aviation and utility purposes.
- Cessna 206 Stationair (1977-present): The Stationair version became the most popular and modern variant of the 206 series. The later models, such as the 206H, include improvements in avionics, engine upgrades, and interior comfort. The 206H model is the most recent iteration, still in production today, with a 300-horsepower Continental IO-550 engine, providing enhanced performance, efficiency, and increased load capacity.
Operational Uses:
The Cessna 206 is an incredibly versatile aircraft, used for a wide range of applications:
- Private and Recreational Flying: The 206 is popular with private owners for its ability to carry multiple passengers and larger cargo loads compared to many smaller general aviation aircraft. Its versatility makes it suitable for long-range travel or flying to less accessible destinations.
- Flight Training: Many flight schools use the Cessna 206 for advanced training, particularly for students progressing to more powerful, multi-seat aircraft.
- Cargo and Utility Transport: The 206 is well-suited for carrying cargo, equipment, or supplies to remote locations, particularly in rural or bush areas where traditional transportation methods are not available. Its relatively large cabin allows it to haul substantial loads for a single-engine aircraft.
- Aerial Survey and Photography: The Cessna 206’s high-wing design and stable flight characteristics make it ideal for aerial surveys, mapping, and photography. It is frequently used by companies and agencies for environmental monitoring, geophysical surveys, or other specialized airborne tasks.
- Agricultural Operations: The 206 has been used for crop dusting and other agricultural work in rural areas due to its ability to operate from short runways and carry loads efficiently.
- Search and Rescue (SAR): Due to its STOL capabilities and robust performance, the Cessna 206 is often used in search-and-rescue missions in remote regions.
Legacy and Popularity:
The Cessna 206 Stationair has been a staple of general aviation for more than 60 years. Its ruggedness, versatility, and performance in a variety of roles have contributed to its lasting popularity. Over 8,000 units have been built, and it remains in production, making it one of the most enduring models in Cessna’s lineup.
The Cessna 206 is highly regarded for its ability to provide high levels of utility, comfort, and performance at a relatively affordable price. Its adaptability for a wide range of applications—from flight training to cargo transport and recreational flying—has helped maintain its popularity.
Notable Characteristics:
- Versatility: The Cessna 206 can be used for many different purposes, from personal flying to utility work in rugged environments, making it a popular choice in general aviation.
- Capacity and Performance: With its six-passenger seating configuration and 300 horsepower engine, the 206 offers excellent passenger and cargo capacity, with good speed and range for a light aircraft.
- Rugged and Reliable: The aircraft’s design allows it to operate in challenging environments, including short and unprepared airstrips, which is why it is favored for bush flying and other utility roles.
Conclusion:
The Cessna 206 Stationair is a versatile, reliable, and rugged aircraft that has proven itself in a variety of roles over its long production run. From flight schools to remote operations and private ownership, the 206 continues to be a popular choice due to its ability to carry passengers, cargo, and equipment efficiently, while also providing solid performance and the ability to operate from short, unpaved airstrips. Whether for personal use, business, or utility tasks, the Cessna 206 remains an essential aircraft in the general aviation sector.