Cessna Turbo 206H Stationair Aircraft

The Cessna 206 Stationair is general aviation's pickup truck — a six-seat, high-wing workhorse that hauls more payload from more places than anything else with a single engine. In production since 1964 with over 9,000 delivered, the 206 powers bush operations from Alaska to Africa. The current 206H Stationair features a Continental IO-540-AC1A5 producing 300 HP, delivering 148 KTAS cruise with a useful load exceeding 1,100 lbs. The turbo variant (T206H, turbocharged TSIO-540-AJ1A, 310 HP) adds high-altitude capability for mountain operations. Nothing else in the Cessna piston lineup carries this much weight this far.

What makes the 206 special. The double cargo doors on the right side open the entire aft cabin for loading stretchers, freight, survey equipment, or oversized gear. On floats (Wipaire, Aerocet), the 206 is the most popular single-engine floatplane currently in production. The fixed tricycle gear is nearly indestructible for rough strip operations. The 206 also serves as the standard jump plane for skydiving operations — over 1,000 are configured for this role.

Key variants. The 206/U206 (1964-1986, Continental IO-520, 285-300 HP) are the classic models. The 206H (1998-present, IO-540) modernized the engine and panel. The T206H Stationair TC (turbocharged, 1998-present) maintains 300 HP to 18,000 feet. The 207 Stationwagon (1969-1984) stretched the fuselage to seat seven-eight passengers. The 205 was the short-lived predecessor. Amphib float installations (Wipaire 3730 or Aerocet 3500L) typically add $100,000-$200,000 to the aircraft value.

Buying advice. Continental IO-540 and IO-520 engines are reliable but heavy — check for case cracks and cylinder base stud corrosion on older models. Verify float attachment fittings and belly skins on floatplane conversions. AD 2008-18-10 (fuel selector) applies to some models. Common wear items: nose gear shimmy damper, cowl flaps, and exhaust systems. Airframe corrosion is a concern on any 206 that has operated on floats or in coastal environments.

Market. 1970s 206 with mid-time engine: $80,000-$140,000. 206H (1998-2010): $200,000-$350,000. T206H with G1000: $350,000-$500,000. On amphibious floats: add $100,000-$200,000. Cessna 206 for sale listings move quickly — particularly float-equipped examples in the spring market.