Cessna 180 Skywagon

Single Piston· 2,576 globally registered

The Cessna 180 Skywagon is one of general aviation's most beloved taildraggers, produced from 1953 to 1981 and prized for its rugged construction, short-field performance, and go-anywhere versatility. Unlike its nosewheel sibling the Cessna 172, the 180 features conventional landing gear and a more powerful engine (originally a 225-hp Continental O-470, later upgraded to 230 hp) paired with a constant-speed propeller that gives it exceptional climb rate and load-carrying capability. Bush pilots in Alaska, Canada, and the Mountain West have long favored the type for backcountry strips, floatplane operations, and cargo hauls where paved runways are a luxury. The 180 can operate comfortably from grass, gravel, sand, and improvised strips as short as 600 feet, and its high-wing design provides excellent visibility and ground clearance for oversized tundra tires or amphibious floats. With a useful load around 1,100 pounds and a cruise speed near 140 knots, the Skywagon strikes a practical balance between payload and speed that few single-engine aircraft match. Though production ended four decades ago, the type remains in wide service across North America, supported by a strong parts network and a passionate owner community. Many airframes have been meticulously maintained or restored, and the 180's reputation for durability means thousand-hour overhauls and multi-decade service lives are common. SkyMeter has tracked 1,101 flights across 426 airframes and 404 operators over routes, with JOBE ALEXANDER JOSEPH the largest observed operator.