Cessna 180: One Good Bush Plane

Bush flying is not always possible for all aircrafts. As for the Cessna 180, a single engine four-seater light aircraft, bush flying is its main thing. When you say bush flying, this refers to the aircraft’s capacity to fly on rugged and unchartered terrains or routes – ones that don’t often get many visitors or flyers for that matter. Aircrafts such as the 180 that makes more than just suitable bush planes but on top of the line in this field, they are often fitted with floats, skis or even tundra tires. This is their show of how capable bush planes they can be.

Along with the 180, Cessna 185 and the Super Cub are the light aircrafts that are best considered as prime bush planes. According to its record, Cessna began the production of its 180 in the year 1953. This appears to be a stout but definitely more powerful version of another aircraft of the Cessna’s, the 170 model. Both models have conventional landing gear as part of its feature however they were both fitted with tri-cycle landing gear in the long run. Now this paved the way to the introduction of the Cessna 172 and Cessna 182.

Another modification made on the Cessna 180 is concerning its engine. 180s have Continental 0-470 engines upon its manufacture with an initial of 225 hp. It was then modified and enhanced into becoming an aircraft bearing 300 hp engines. The 180 takes pride in its power, speed and at the same time, versatility. Perhaps it’s these characteristics that set it apart from the rest of the Cessna aircrafts.

Put alongside the 185, the 180 model of Cessna look very similar not only having a larger dorsal fin as that of the 185. This larger dorsal fin is attached to the aircraft’s vertical surface. There have been cases of the 180s being produced with larger fins as compared with others of its same model and kind but some have been modified to the 180’s specifications. Both the 180 and the 185 are made of 2024-T3 Alcad aluminum showing off a semi-monocoque design and with rivet fasteners.

As earlier recognized to be prime bush planes – having the excellent bush flying abilities, the 180 and the 185 became aircrafts that command premium prices on the used market. Up to now, owners of these types of Cessna don’t easily, if never ever, let go of what they own. Just like the evolution of the Cessna aircrafts, the practice of bush flying also changed through time where when in older times, to bush fly is to be on your own and simply bringing your choice of a bush plane and your drive for adventure, today, bush flying has become a family bonding activity.

By: A. James David

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James David teaches people how to buy single engine airplanes & has a passion for the Cessna 180