CESSNA 210 CENTURION is a high-performance, single-engine, light aircraft produced by Cessna Aircraft Company. It was originally introduced in the early 1960s and remained in production until the 1980s. Known for its reliability, versatility, and impressive speed, the Cessna 210 was designed to meet the demands of both private owners and commercial operators. It is particularly favored for its range, power, and ability to carry more passengers and cargo compared to other small aircraft, making it suitable for longer trips and various utility roles.
Key Features of the Cessna 210 Centurion:
- First Flight: May 1957 (as the Cessna 210, later known as the Centurion).
- Manufacturer: Cessna Aircraft Company.
- Engine: The Cessna 210 is typically powered by a Continental IO-520 or IO-550 engine, depending on the model, producing between 285 and 300 horsepower. Some later models were equipped with a turbocharged engine for improved high-altitude performance.
- Capacity: The aircraft seats up to 6 passengers (including the pilot), making it suitable for both private and commercial use.
- Cruising Speed: Around 150 knots (173 mph or 278 km/h), with some models capable of slightly higher speeds.
- Range: Approximately 1,000 nautical miles (1,850 km), depending on the fuel load, configuration, and model.
- Wingspan: 10.9 meters (35 feet 9 inches).
- Length: 8.4 meters (27 feet 6 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:
- Tricycle Landing Gear: The Cessna 210 has a tricycle landing gear configuration, which makes it easier to operate on paved and grass runways. The design improves landing stability and provides better control during taxiing.
- Low-Wing Design: Unlike other Cessna aircraft (such as the 172 or 182), the Cessna 210 has a low-wing configuration, which improves aerodynamics, stability, and overall speed. The low wing also provides better control at higher speeds and allows for easier access to the cabin via the aircraft’s large doors.
- Powerful Engine: The Cessna 210’s engine options (typically Continental IO-520 or IO-550) provide a solid combination of performance and fuel efficiency. The engine allows the aircraft to cruise at high speeds while maintaining reasonable fuel consumption for its class. Some turbocharged versions allow the 210 to operate more effectively at higher altitudes.
- Performance and Speed: The Cessna 210 is a high-performance aircraft capable of reaching maximum speeds of around 170 knots (approximately 196 mph or 315 km/h). This makes it a suitable option for long-range travel and for reaching destinations quickly. Its impressive speed and good climb rates allow it to easily handle both short regional flights and longer trips.
Variants:
The Cessna 210 has undergone several changes over its production run, with different models featuring upgrades to engines, avionics, and overall performance.
- Cessna 210 (Original): Introduced in 1957, the original 210 was powered by a Continental O-470 engine and seated up to 4 passengers. It was primarily used for personal flying and by small operators.
- Cessna 210A (1960-1961): The A-model featured improvements in aerodynamics, payload, and performance, with a more powerful engine and better overall handling.
- Cessna 210B, C, D, and E (1962-1968): These models included further refinements to the airframe, a more powerful engine, and improvements in the interior. The 210D and E also introduced tail-mounted stabilizers for better stability.
- Cessna 210F (1969-1971): The F-model included improved avionics, upgraded engine performance, and a redesigned interior. It was also one of the first to feature turbocharged engine options.
- Cessna 210G (1972-1975): The G-model included further refinement to the engine options, performance, and cabin interior, including new instruments and modern avionics.
- Cessna 210H (1976-1980): The H-model introduced fuel-injected engines and other aerodynamic improvements, resulting in better fuel efficiency and improved climb performance.
- Cessna 210 Turbo (1970s-1980s): Several turbocharged versions of the 210 were introduced, including the 210 Turbo Centurion, which featured a turbocharged engine to improve performance at high altitudes and in hot conditions.
- Cessna 210N (1981-1986): The N-model introduced further improvements to the avionics, including more modern glass-panel displays, and continued the trend of providing turbocharged options for operators needing higher performance at altitude.
Operational Uses:
The Cessna 210 Centurion has been used for a variety of applications:
- Private and Recreational Flying: The 210 is a popular choice among private pilots and owners who require a more capable aircraft for longer trips, family travel, or personal use. Its combination of speed, range, and cabin space makes it ideal for cross-country flying and regional trips.
- Flight Training: Due to its high-performance capabilities, the 210 is also used for advanced flight training, especially for pilots seeking to move on to more complex, higher-performance aircraft.
- Charter Operations: The Cessna 210 is used by air charter services that need a reliable, efficient aircraft for regional flights, particularly in areas with short runways or challenging terrain. Its ability to carry both passengers and cargo has made it a favorite for small regional operators.
- Cargo Transport: Many operators use the Cessna 210 to transport cargo, particularly in rural or remote areas where large aircraft cannot operate. The aircraft can carry bulky or lightweight cargo, making it a versatile option for small operators.
- Aerial Survey and Photography: The stable flight characteristics and wide cabin of the Cessna 210 make it an excellent platform for aerial surveys, environmental monitoring, and aerial photography. It’s often used for tasks like mapping, geophysical surveys, or wildlife monitoring.
- Agricultural Use: The 210’s large cabin and high performance also make it suitable for agricultural work such as crop dusting or spraying, particularly in areas with small airstrips.
Legacy and Popularity:
The Cessna 210 Centurion has had a long and successful production run, with more than 7,500 units built over several decades. Although production ceased in the mid-1980s, the 210 remains popular with private owners, flight schools, and small commercial operators, especially in rural and remote areas.
Its combination of speed, range, power, and load-carrying capacity has made it a reliable choice for those who need a versatile aircraft capable of performing a wide variety of roles. Many of the older models are still flying today and are considered highly valuable on the used aircraft market due to their solid construction and performance.
Notable Characteristics:
- High Performance: With its ability to cruise at high speeds and reach altitudes of up to 20,000 feet, the Cessna 210 is a capable aircraft for long-distance travel, commercial use, and advanced flight training.
- Comfortable Cabin: The Cessna 210 is known for its roomy cabin, offering enough space for four to six passengers and their luggage. The spacious cabin is well-suited for both short and long trips.
- Versatility: The 210’s ability to operate in a wide range of conditions, from private travel to small commercial operations, has made it one of the most popular aircraft in its class for decades.
Conclusion:
The Cessna 210 Centurion remains one of the most respected and versatile aircraft in the general aviation community. Its longevity, reliable performance, and ability to carry heavy loads over long distances make it a popular choice for private pilots, flight schools, and small commercial operators. Although it has been succeeded by newer models like the Cessna 208 Caravan and Cessna 172, the 210 continues to be a workhorse for many in general aviation and remains a classic in the world of light aircraft.