182 Skylane vs SR20
The SR20 leads, topping 4 of 7 compared metrics.
The Cessna / Textron Aviation 182 Skylane (introduced 1956) and the Cirrus Aircraft SR20 (introduced 1999) are two aircraft buyers regularly weigh against each other. Both are piston singles, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. The clearest separation between them is range, where the SR20 has the advantage. undefined
6 more specs per aircraft — ceiling, climb, cabin, dimensions and more — are free with an account.
182 Skylane vs SR20: the key differences
- The SR20 delivers 9% more range (182 Skylane: 915 nm; SR20: 1,000 nm).
- The SR20 delivers 7% more cruise speed (182 Skylane: 145 kt; SR20: 155 kt).
- The 182 Skylane and SR20 are evenly matched on passenger capacity, both at 4 seats.
- The SR20 is the newer design (introduced 1999 versus 1956 for the 182 Skylane), a gap of 43 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The SR20 is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (3,150 lbs versus 3,100 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
Which mission suits which aircraft
The SR20 is the stronger fit for regional and short-to-medium legs — its 1,000 nm of range removes fuel stops on those legs. The 182 Skylane, at 915 nm, is better matched to short-haul and regional hops, where lower trip cost counts for more than outright reach. If most of your flying sits inside the 182 Skylane's range, the SR20's extra capability is range you pay to carry but rarely use.
Which should you choose?
Choose the SR20 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the 182 Skylane when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the SR20 holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
182 Skylane vs SR20: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the 182 Skylane or the SR20?
The SR20 has the longer published range — 1,000 nm versus 915 nm for the 182 Skylane.
Which is faster, the 182 Skylane or the SR20?
The SR20 cruises faster, at 155 kt versus 145 kt for the 182 Skylane.
Which is newer, the 182 Skylane or the SR20?
The SR20 is the newer design, introduced in 1999 versus 1956 for the 182 Skylane.
Is the 182 Skylane or the SR20 the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the SR20 is the larger aircraft — 3,150 lbs versus 3,100 lbs for the 182 Skylane.
Should I buy the 182 Skylane or the SR20?
Choose the SR20 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the 182 Skylane when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the SR20 holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
Still weighing up the 182 Skylane vs SR20?
Specs only take you so far. Our advisors give an independent recommendation based on your mission, budget and how you actually fly — and represent your side through to purchase.