Plain English Meaning
A popular four-seat Cessna airplane with the wing on top, more power and load-carrying ability than the smaller Cessna 172, often used for longer personal trips.
Full Definition
A single-engine, four-seat, high-wing general aviation airplane manufactured by Cessna Aircraft Company. The C182 Skylane is a step up in performance from the smaller Cessna 172, featuring a more powerful engine (typically 230 horsepower), a constant-speed propeller, and greater useful load. It is classified as a complex-capable aircraft in some configurations and is widely used for personal travel, training beyond the basic level, and light utility flying.
Context Anchor
Seen in PAVE checklist examples when identifying aircraft-related hazards before a flight.
Derivation
Cessna names many of its piston singles after weather or sky themes -- Skyhawk (172), Skylane (182), Skywagon (185), Stationair (206). 'Skylane' suggests a comfortable cruising airplane -- a 'lane' through the sky -- reflecting its role as a capable cross-country traveler.
Why Pilots Care
Pilots reference the C182 Skylane when assessing aircraft-specific hazards and setting personal minimums for flights.
Intuition Check
Do not read “C182 Skylane” as a checklist step or FAA rule. It is the name of a specific airplane model being evaluated.
Example Sentence 1
After getting comfortable in the Cessna 172, she transitioned to a C182 Skylane for the extra power and useful load needed on family trips.
Example Sentence 2
Before departure, the instructor reviewed weight and balance for the loaded C182 Skylane.