A182 Skylane

The A182 Skylane, produced under licence by Argentina’s DINFIA (Dirección Nacional de Fabricación e Investigación Aeronáutica), entered service in the early 1970s as the local version of the popular Cessna 182. DINFIA adapted the design for South American conditions, incorporating locally sourced materials and a robust Lycoming O‑540 engine delivering 230 horsepower. The aircraft features a high‑wing configuration, all‑metal airframe, and a spacious four‑seat cabin with large windows, providing excellent visibility for training and observation missions. Fixed tricycle landing gear and a simple, reliable control system made the A182 easy to operate from rough airstrips, while the optional retractable‑gear model offered higher cruise speeds and better fuel efficiency. Over 200 units were built, serving civil aviation schools, government agencies, and private owners throughout Argentina and neighboring countries. Its durability, low operating costs, and versatility cemented the A182 Skylane’s reputation as a workhorse of regional aviation, influencing future DINFIA projects and demonstrating the viability of licensed production in expanding the nation’s aeronautical capability. The A182 also served as a platform for avionics trials, incorporating GPS navigation and weather radar that were later adopted by larger regional aircraft. Its legacy endures in Argentine fleets, where examples continue to fly after decades of service.