Aircraft overview

The Cessna 180 Skywagon is a high wing, tailwheel utility aircraft built by Cessna from 1953 to 1981, following a first flight in 1952. It occupies an important place in the used aircraft market because it combines simple construction, strong short field capability and a larger cabin than many two and four seat taildraggers. Unlike the nosewheel Cessna 182, the Cessna 180 Skywagon retained conventional landing gear throughout production, making it especially popular for backcountry, float, ski and unimproved strip operations.

Performance & specifications

Most Cessna 180 Skywagon models are powered by a six cylinder Continental O-470 engine, typically rated at 225 or 230 hp depending on variant. Typical cruise speeds are around 130 to 145 knots, with real world range commonly in the 700 to 900 nautical mile class when equipped with long range fuel and operated conservatively. Useful load is often around 1,000 to 1,200 lb, although individual aircraft vary significantly with equipment, interior, floats, mods and empty weight. Published service ceilings vary by model, generally in the high teens. The aircraft is valued for its combination of load carrying, rough field manners and relatively straightforward maintenance.

Cabin & avionics

The Cessna 180 Skywagon cabin is typically arranged for four seats, with some later or modified aircraft configured for up to six seats using aft jump seats. Access is through side doors, and the high wing layout gives good downward visibility and practical loading for travel, camping gear or utility work. Factory avionics were analog and period specific, so today’s panel condition depends almost entirely on upgrades. Buyers will commonly see traditional round gauges, Garmin GNS or GTN navigators, Garmin G5 or GI 275 electronic flight instruments, modern audio panels, ADS-B equipment and occasional autopilot retrofits. Garmin G1000 and Garmin Perspective were not factory suites for the Cessna 180 Skywagon.

Buying & value

When comparing used Cessna 180 Skywagon listings, focus on airframe history, complete logs, corrosion inspection, tailwheel and landing gear condition, engine time, propeller status, fuel system condition and any floatplane or heavy backcountry use. Common upgrades include larger tires, STOL kits, shoulder harnesses, improved seats, modern panels, engine conversions, float fittings and long range fuel. Variants run from early 180 models through later 180K aircraft, with later examples often bringing higher prices. Current PlaneFox listing data shows an average asking price around EUR 172,000, with observed listings from about EUR 98,000 to EUR 255,000, reflecting wide differences in year, condition, equipment and modification history.