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Cessna 182 Skylane vs Cirrus Sr22 G6 vs Diamond Aircraft Da40 Xlt

The Cessna Skylane (typically the 182 series) is a classic high‑wing, fixed‑gear piston single valued for utility and load‑carrying. It usually seats four, with strong real‑world flexibility for passengers plus baggage, and offers solid cross‑country capability with range commonly in the roughly 900–1,100 nautical mile class depending on model, fuel, and power setting. The Cirrus SR22 G6 is a modern, high‑performance composite piston single emphasizing speed, avionics, and the signature whole‑aircraft parachute system. It is also generally a four‑seater, but tends to prioritize performance and comfort over bulky hauling. Typical range is about 1,000–1,200 nautical miles, again depending on configuration and reserves, and it’s often the quickest of the three. The Diamond DA40 XLT is a lighter, efficient composite piston single often associated with training and economical touring. It seats four, but with more limited useful load compared with the Skylane. Its range is commonly around 700–900 nautical miles, with efficiency and handling as key strengths rather than maximum speed or payload.

SpecCessna SkylaneDiamond Aircraft DA40 XLT
Summary
DOC / nm$ 1.01$ 0.88
Total Seats44
Flight RulesVFRVFR
ManufacturerCessnaDiamond Aircraft
Aircraft Name182 SkylaneDA40 XLT
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)915790
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.25$ 0.22
OEM VerificationUn-VerifiedUn-Verified
Direct Operating Cost$ 146$ 125
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Garmin G1000 NXiGarmin G1000 NXi
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)145142
Base Aircraft Price (USD) $530,000 $485,000
Useful Load (lbs)900
Cabin
Total Seats44
Engine
FADECNoNo
ModelIO-540-AB1A5IO-360 M1A
Fuel TypeAvGasAvGas
TBO (hrs)20002000
TBO (yrs)1212
Horsepower245180
Fuel DeliveryFuel InjectedFuel Injected
No. of Engines11
Fuel Capacity (gal)8750
Usable Fuel (gal)48
Dimensions
Length (ft)2926.5
Wingspan (ft)3638.2
Cabin Width (ft)3.5
Cabin Height (ft)4.1
Cabin Length (ft)11.2
Overall Height (ft)9.46.5
Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft)32