2011 Cessna Skycatcher 162: A Reliable Aircraft for Value and Performance

The 2011 Cessna Skycatcher 162 is an ideal example of Cessna’s enduring legacy of producing reliable, cost-effective, and high-performance aircraft. Designed as a light-sport aircraft (LSA), the Skycatcher is a streamlined and modern option for both new and experienced pilots, providing an excellent balance of performance and affordability. As a time builder or hobbyist airplane, the Skycatcher offers exceptional value, with features such as modern avionics, low maintenance needs, and remarkable fuel efficiency. This blog post explores the Skycatcher’s history, uses, and standout features, along with detailed information about the aircraft’s components and its upcoming auction.

Cessna History and the Birth of the Skycatcher 162

Cessna, an iconic name in the aviation industry, has a rich history that spans decades of innovation and aircraft development. Founded in 1927 by Clyde Cessna, the company quickly became known for its durable and versatile aircraft. Cessna’s planes have flown in diverse roles, from personal aircraft to military trainers, and the company remains a staple in general aviation today. The Cessna 162 Skycatcher, introduced in 2006, was a response to the growing demand for affordable and easy-to-fly light-sport aircraft. It was designed for training, time building, and recreational flying, offering an accessible entry point for new pilots, while also appealing to experienced aviators looking for an economical option for personal flying.

The Skycatcher became a part of the Cessna brand’s legacy, demonstrating the company’s commitment to crafting aircraft that are simple, reliable, and offer great performance without sacrificing value. Though Cessna ceased production of the Skycatcher in 2013, the aircraft remains a testament to the company’s innovation in the light-sport category.

Great Records and Exceptional Performance

The 2011 Cessna 162 is a standout example of great records in the world of light-sport aircraft. With just 1480 hours of total time on the airframe and 1480 hours on the engine, this particular Skycatcher has proven to be a reliable, well-maintained aircraft, ready for its next owner. The aircraft’s low operating costs, modern avionics, and strong performance have earned it a reputation as a solid choice for pilots who value simplicity, cost-efficiency, and longevity.

As a model that showcases both value and performance, the 2011 Cessna Skycatcher is perfectly suited for flight schools, time building, and recreational use. Its record of low operating hours and its highly sought-after features position it as a prime candidate for those seeking an affordable yet reliable aircraft.

Airframe: A Solid Foundation for Performance

The airframe of this 2011 Cessna 162 Skycatcher is designed for reliability and performance. With a total time of 1480 hours, it has been carefully maintained and is ready for continued use. Built with durable materials and designed to be lightweight, the Skycatcher’s airframe offers an ideal combination of strength and agility, perfect for its role as a light-sport aircraft.

With a useful load of 491 pounds, this aircraft can carry ample fuel and passenger weight while maintaining excellent handling. The Skycatcher has a fuel capacity of 24 gallons, offering a range of 470 nautical miles and a cruise speed of 129 mph. These features make it an ideal choice for recreational flying and time building, with the capability to cover long distances without excessive fuel consumption. Its stall speed of just 37 knots indicated airspeed (KIAS) adds an element of safety, particularly during low-speed maneuvers, making it a forgiving and approachable aircraft for pilots of all experience levels.

Engine: Power and Reliability

The Cessna 162 is powered by a Continental O-200D engine, with serial number 1003204, which has 1480 hours since its last overhaul in January 2022. The O-200D engine is renowned for its reliability and efficiency, providing the Skycatcher with sufficient power for its light-sport category. Known for its smooth performance and low operating costs, this engine is an excellent match for the 162’s design, offering dependable performance throughout the aircraft’s life.

The engine is economical to operate, a key feature for pilots looking to reduce fuel costs and maintain low operating expenses. Its dependable power delivery contributes to the Skycatcher’s reputation for simplicity and low maintenance, ensuring that pilots can enjoy worry-free flights for years to come.

Propeller: Efficient and Durable

The McCauley Propeller 1L100/LSA6754 on this 2011 Cessna 162 has a total time of 1665 hours since new, providing efficient and smooth performance. McCauley propellers are known for their durability, and this particular unit is no exception. The propeller has been well-maintained, ensuring smooth and quiet operation, contributing to the aircraft’s overall efficiency and fuel economy.

The Skycatcher’s propeller complements its engine, providing an optimized balance of performance and fuel efficiency. With a lightweight and reliable design, the propeller ensures that the aircraft maintains excellent climb rates and cruise performance, while keeping noise levels low during flight.

Avionics: Modern and User-Friendly

Equipped with a dual Garmin G300 avionics suite, the 2011 Cessna Skycatcher offers modern and intuitive navigation and communication capabilities. This avionics suite is ideal for both VFR and limited IFR operations, making the Skycatcher a great option for pilots who want to build experience in instrument flying. The Garmin G300 provides clear, easy-to-read displays, including moving map functionality, making navigation straightforward and stress-free.

Additionally, the Skycatcher is equipped with a Garmin GTX 327 transponder, Garmin GDL 82 ADS-B, and Jeppesen NavData, offering enhanced situational awareness and connectivity for modern flying. Garmin FliteCharts and SafeTaxi further improve safety, providing pilots with detailed approach charts and precise taxiway navigation. While the Skycatcher is not IFR certified, its avionics suite is ideal for IFR training and makes it an excellent platform for pilots seeking to gain instrument experience.

Exterior: Clean and Practical

The exterior of this 2011 Cessna 162 is finished in a sleek white color, accented with gray, black, and blue. The clean and professional appearance of the aircraft ensures it stands out, whether on the ground or in the sky. The combination of these colors creates a modern and appealing look while offering practical benefits, such as keeping the aircraft cooler in hot weather and being easier to maintain.

With a well-kept exterior, this Skycatcher is ready to impress potential buyers at the upcoming auction. The airplane’s body shows minimal wear, indicating that it has been carefully stored and maintained throughout its life. The high-quality paintwork also ensures a clean, aerodynamic profile that contributes to the aircraft’s efficient flight performance.

Interior: Comfortable and Modern

The interior of this Cessna 162 is designed for comfort and practicality, with a black and gray color scheme. The cabin is spacious for a light-sport aircraft, offering ample room for the pilot and a passenger. The seats are ergonomically designed to ensure a comfortable flying experience, even during longer flights. The modern interior design enhances the overall aesthetic, presenting well and making it a joy to fly.

The cockpit layout is intuitive and user-friendly, with all avionics controls easily accessible to the pilot. The seats are comfortable, and the overall interior is well-maintained, ensuring that the aircraft is not only functional but also visually appealing.

Additional Features: Ready for the Next Owner

The 2011 Cessna 162 comes with a new left-hand main tire, ensuring that the aircraft is in top shape for its next owner. This addition adds to the overall value of the aircraft, ensuring that it is ready for immediate use with minimal maintenance required.

Upcoming Auction Details

The 2011 Cessna Skycatcher 162 is scheduled for auction from February 19–26, 2025, with a starting bid of $25,000. The auction includes a 6% buyer premium and requires a $2,000 deposit. The aircraft will be sold with an annual inspection completed in December 2024, adding further confidence to its continued airworthiness.

Conclusion

The 2011 Cessna Skycatcher 162 is an excellent example of value, performance, and reliability in the light-sport aircraft category. With a low operating cost, modern avionics, and well-maintained components, it offers a fantastic balance of simplicity and performance. Whether you’re a time builder, a recreational pilot, or looking for an aircraft that is economical to fly, the Skycatcher provides a remarkable experience.

This aircraft is a great opportunity for pilots seeking a dependable, cost-effective solution for personal flying or training. With its upcoming auction and low entry price, the 2011 Cessna 162 is sure to be an attractive option for aviation enthusiasts seeking a reliable and affordable aircraft.