Cessna 206 Stationair Cost of Ownership: Utility, Performance, and Backcountry Capability
The Cessna 206 Stationair is a high-performance single-engine aircraft designed for utility missions, bush flying, and personal transport. With exceptional payload and optional turbocharging for high-altitude operations, the 206 commands premium pricing. Here's the complete financial picture of 206 ownership.
Cost Overview: Cessna 206 Stationair
Purchase Price
$149,500–$795,000
Annual Fixed Costs
$5,800–$9,300
Hourly Operating Cost
$150–$200/hr
Fuel Burn
12–15 GPH
Purchase Cost: Understanding Cessna 206 Pricing
The Cessna 206 Stationair has been in production since 1962 with continuous improvements. Modern variants include the Turbo 206 for high-altitude operations and the Turbo Stationair HD with enhanced performance. The wide price range reflects significant variation in model year, avionics, condition, and configuration.
Current Market Prices (2024-2025):
Naturally aspirated Cessna 206s range from $149,500 (budget examples) to $795,000 (premium modern equipped). A typical well-maintained naturally aspirated 206 averages around $450,000. Turbocharged models command significantly higher prices, ranging from $429,900 to $1,150,000, with premium equipped examples averaging $750,000+. New Turbo Stationair HD aircraft exceed $740,000.
Turbocharged Price Premium: Turbocharged 206s typically cost $4,000-$36,000 more than comparable naturally aspirated versions, depending on model year. For example, a 1999 turbocharged 206 was valued approximately $36,000 above a standard 206.
What Affects 206 Pricing: Avionics packages have dramatic impact—glass panels (Garmin G1000) add significant value. Engine condition, total airframe hours, interior quality, and maintenance records heavily influence pricing. Bush-modified aircraft with reinforced landing gear or other backcountry equipment may command premiums or discounts depending on buyer preferences.
Fuel Consumption and Operating Costs
The Cessna 206 burns more fuel than smaller Cessna trainers, reflecting its 285-300 horsepower engine and utility mission capability.
Fuel Burn Rates:
The naturally aspirated Cessna 206 equipped with Continental IO-520 engine burns approximately 12.5-15 gallons per hour at cruise, with 15 GPH typical at 75% power. At 60-65% power (economical cruise), consumption drops to approximately 12-13 GPH. Climb operations consume 16-17 GPH.
Fuel Cost Per Hour (at various Avgas prices):
- At $5.00/gallon: $62.50-$75/hour (12.5-15 GPH)
- At $5.40/gallon: $67.50-$81/hour (12.5-15 GPH)
- At $6.00/gallon: $75-$90/hour (12.5-15 GPH)
- At $7.00/gallon: $87.50-$105/hour (12.5-15 GPH)
Fuel represents approximately 45-50% of the 206's hourly operating costs. Careful power management can materially reduce fuel costs compared to high-power operations.
Engine Overhaul: Planning for Major Expense
The 206's larger Continental engines have reasonable overhaul costs but longer TBO intervals than smaller trainers.
Naturally Aspirated Engine (IO-520):
TBO is 2,000 hours. Overhaul costs range from $27,995 to $33,000. Most shops price at approximately $27,995-$30,000 for experienced work. Complete overhaul projects including removal, installation, hoses, baffles, and accessory overhauls typically cost $45,000-$55,000 total. Hourly engine reserve: $18.67 per flight hour ($37,334 ÷ 2,000 hours).
Turbocharged Engine (TIO-540):
TBO is 1,800 hours (200 hours less than naturally aspirated), representing a 10% reduction in engine life. Overhaul costs approximately $28,995-$31,000, roughly $3,000 more than the naturally aspirated IO-520. Hourly engine reserve: $32.80 per flight hour ($58,000 ÷ 1,800 hours), significantly higher than naturally aspirated models.
Key Planning Consideration: At typical recreational flying rates (100-150 hours annually), the naturally aspirated 206 engine will last 13-20 years before overhaul becomes mandatory. The turbocharged engine lasts 12-18 years, so overhaul timing is a significant ownership planning factor.
Naturally Aspirated vs. Turbocharged: The Critical Choice
This is the fundamental decision for 206 ownership. Each configuration has distinct advantages and cost implications.
| Factor | Naturally Aspirated | Turbocharged | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $450,000 avg | $750,000 avg | NA (cheaper) |
| Engine TBO | 2,000 hours | 1,800 hours | NA (+200 hrs) |
| Overhaul Cost | $27,995-$33,000 | $28,995+ | Comparable |
| Hourly Engine Reserve | $18.67/hour | $32.80/hour | NA (cheaper) |
| Fuel Burn @ Cruise | 12.5-15 GPH | Slightly higher | Comparable |
| Cruise Speed | 145 knots | 150+ knots | Turbo (faster) |
| High-Altitude Performance | Limits above 15K | Maintains power to 25K+ | Turbo (better) |
| Maintenance Complexity | Simple | More complex | NA (easier) |
| Reliability | Excellent | Very good | Comparable |
When to Choose Naturally Aspirated: For pilots operating primarily from sea level to 10,000 feet, recreational flying, and budget-conscious ownership. Lower purchase price, longer TBO, simpler maintenance, and lower engine reserves make the naturally aspirated 206 the economical choice. When to Choose Turbocharged: For mountain operations, high-altitude flying, hot/high density altitude airports, or commercial operations requiring consistent high altitude performance. The 5+ knot speed increase and maintained power above 15,000 feet justify the higher cost.
Insurance: Reasonable Rates for High-Value Aircraft
Annual Insurance Premiums:
- Liability Only ($1M coverage): $567-$740/year for qualified pilots
- Full Hull Coverage ($330,000 value): $2,400-$3,000/year for well-maintained naturally aspirated model
- Older/High-Time Models: $3,500-$6,347/year ($285,000 hull value)
- Turbocharged Models: Slightly higher due to increased complexity and higher hull values
Interestingly, 206 insurance costs are frequently lower than for complex retractable gear aircraft like the Piper Arrow, despite the higher purchase price. This reflects the aircraft's excellent safety record and relatively simple systems.
Maintenance and Annual Inspection
Annual Inspection Costs:
Annual inspection labor cost is approximately $1,320 (labor-only basis). Total inspection including minor repairs and adjustments typically costs $3,000. Actual costs vary widely ($800-$3,000+) depending on maintenance history and any deferred items discovered.
Propeller Maintenance:
The 206 typically uses Hartzell or McCauley constant-speed propellers requiring overhaul. Propeller service costs vary widely:
- Basic Clean & Seal: $700-$900
- With Component Repairs: $1,100-$1,200
- Major Overhaul (Hartzell with hub): $6,000+
- Warning: Neglected propeller maintenance can turn a $3,000 overhaul into a $15,000 prop replacement
Hourly Maintenance Reserve: Budget $23.45-$24.02 per flight hour for maintenance reserves (beyond engine reserve). This accounts for propeller overhaul, regular servicing, and unexpected repairs.
Oil Consumption: Budget $3.76 per flight hour for oil and filters, translating to approximately $375 annually at 100 hours of flying.
Storage and Facility Costs
Outdoor Tie-Down: $50-$150/month ($600-$1,800/year), typical $840/year
Hangar (Indoor): Varies by location, typical $3,000-$6,000/year
Most 206 owners prefer hangar protection due to the aircraft's value and composite/metal construction's vulnerability to UV and weather exposure over extended periods.
Total Cost of Ownership: Cessna 206 Examples
Scenario 1: Naturally Aspirated 206 at 100 Hours/Year
| Expense Category | Annual Cost | Per Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel (15 GPH @ $36/gal) | $5,400 | $54.00 |
| Oil | $376 | $3.76 |
| Engine Reserve | $1,867 | $18.67 |
| Maintenance Reserve | $2,345 | $23.45 |
| Annual Inspection | $2,000 | $20.00 |
| Insurance | $2,500 | $25.00 |
| Tie-Down Storage | $840 | $8.40 |
| Subscriptions & Misc | $600 | $6.00 |
| TOTAL | $15,928 | $159.28 |
Scenario 2: Naturally Aspirated 206 at 200 Hours/Year (Better Economics)
| Expense Category | Annual Cost | Per Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel (15 GPH @ $36/gal) | $10,800 | $54.00 |
| Oil | $752 | $3.76 |
| Engine Reserve | $3,734 | $18.67 |
| Maintenance Reserve | $4,690 | $23.45 |
| Annual Inspection | $2,500 | $12.50 |
| Insurance | $2,500 | $12.50 |
| Hangar Storage | $3,600 | $18.00 |
| Subscriptions & Misc | $700 | $3.50 |
| TOTAL | $28,776 | $143.88 |
Key Observation: The Cessna 206's economies are strongly tied to utilization. At 100 hours annually, per-hour costs run $159.28. At 200 hours annually, per-hour costs drop to $143.88 as fixed costs spread over more flight hours. This underscores the importance of planning realistic annual flying hours before purchasing.
Financing a Cessna 206
The significant purchase price makes financing critical for most buyers.
Financing Example:
A $450,000 naturally aspirated Cessna 206 with 25% down payment ($112,500) financed at 6.5% over 15 years results in monthly payments of approximately $2,480 ($29,760 annually). Adding this to the $15,928 operating costs (100 hours/year) brings total annual cost to $45,688, or approximately $457/hour.
Down payment size is critical to affordability. A 30% down payment ($135,000) reduces monthly payments to approximately $2,160/month ($25,920 annually), bringing total annual cost to $41,848.
Bush Flying and Backcountry Considerations
Many 206 owners use the aircraft for bush flying and backcountry operations due to its excellent payload and rugged design.
Bush Operations Impact on Maintenance:
Regular operation from unprepared landing strips increases landing gear inspection frequency and costs. Dust, sand, and rough surface operations accelerate wear on tires, brakes, and gear components. Budget an additional 20-30% for maintenance if regularly operating from unimproved airstrips.
Performance Advantage for Bush Flying: The 206's excellent useful load (900+ pounds in many configurations) and rugged construction make it ideal for bush operations. Proper maintenance and realistic cost planning are critical to long-term economics in this demanding role.
Why Own a Cessna 206?
Despite premium costs, 206 ownership offers compelling advantages:
- Exceptional Utility: Outstanding payload and useful load for cargo, passengers, or equipment
- Performance: 145+ knot cruise speed with strong climb and altitude capability
- Versatility: Equally suitable for recreation, bush flying, or commercial operations
- Reliability: Proven Continental engines with excellent support and parts availability
- Value Retention: Strong secondary market demand maintains resale value
- Simplicity: Fixed gear and proven systems mean straightforward maintenance
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a used Cessna 206 Stationair cost?
Used Cessna 206 prices range from $149,500 to $795,000 depending on model year, avionics, condition, and whether naturally aspirated or turbocharged. Naturally aspirated models average around $450,000 for well-maintained examples. Turbocharged models command $750,000+. Older models and high-time examples cost less; newer low-time aircraft with modern avionics cost significantly more.
How much fuel does a Cessna 206 burn per hour?
The naturally aspirated Cessna 206 burns approximately 12.5-15 gallons per hour at cruise power, with 15 GPH typical at 75% power. This results in fuel costs of $75-$81 per flight hour at current Avgas prices. Turbocharged models burn slightly more fuel due to higher power settings but may achieve similar or slightly better range.
What is the cost to overhaul a Cessna 206 engine?
The Continental IO-520 engine has a 2,000-hour TBO and overhaul costs $27,995-$33,000. Turbocharged engines (TIO-540) cost slightly more. Engine reserves should be budgeted at approximately $18.67 per flight hour for naturally aspirated models and $32.80 per flight hour for turbocharged models.
What are annual insurance costs for a Cessna 206?
Liability-only coverage costs $567-$740 annually for qualified pilots. Full hull coverage runs $2,400-$3,000 for a well-maintained naturally aspirated model. Older models or high-time aircraft may cost $3,500-$6,347 annually. Insurance is typically lower than for complex aircraft like the Piper Arrow.
What is the difference between naturally aspirated and turbocharged Cessna 206s?
Naturally aspirated 206s cost less initially and are simpler to maintain. Turbocharged models provide better high-altitude performance and maintain power at elevation. Turbocharged engines have a 200-hour shorter TBO (1,800 vs. 2,000 hours), cost approximately $3,000 more to overhaul, and have higher hourly operating costs. Choose turbocharged for mountain/high-altitude flying; naturally aspirated for general recreation.
What is the total annual cost to own and operate a Cessna 206?
At 100 hours annual flying with a naturally aspirated model, annual costs total approximately $18,528 or $185.28 per flight hour. This includes fuel, oil, maintenance, engine reserve, insurance, and tie-down storage (no financing). With higher utilization (200 hours/year), per-hour costs drop to $156 per hour as fixed costs distribute across more hours.
Is the Cessna 206 suitable for bush flying and backcountry operations?
Yes. The 206 was designed for utility missions including bush flying, cargo operations, and personal transport. Excellent useful load and payload capacity make it ideal for backcountry work. However, regular operation from rough/unimproved strips requires more frequent landing gear inspection and potential reinforcement. Operating from improved strips minimizes additional maintenance.
How does the Cessna 206 resale value compare to other aircraft?
The 206 holds value well due to its utility and demand from commercial operators and bush pilots. Well-maintained examples show minimal depreciation, making it a good value-retention aircraft. Constant market demand from flight schools, commercial operators, and recreational pilots maintains strong secondary market pricing.
Ready to Own a Cessna 206?
The Cessna 206 Stationair represents premium single-engine ownership with unmatched utility and payload capacity. Whether flying for recreation, bush operations, or commercial cargo missions, the 206's reliability and performance justify its higher operating costs.
Use our affordability calculator to evaluate 206 financing options, compare naturally aspirated vs. turbocharged economics, or contact us to discuss your specific mission requirements and budget.
Sources and Citations
1. PlanePhD - Cessna 206/206H/T206H Specifications & Operating Costs
https://planephd.com
Detailed valuation, performance specifications, and calculated operating costs ($81-$197/hour depending on utilization).
2. Aircraft Cost Calculator - Cessna 206 Operating Costs
Comprehensive hourly operating cost models and depreciation analysis for naturally aspirated and turbocharged models.
3. Controller.com & Trade-A-Plane - Cessna 206 Aircraft Listings
Real-time used aircraft market data and current asking prices (2024-2025).
4. Aviation Consumer - Cessna 206 and Turbo 206 Reviews
Detailed analysis of naturally aspirated vs. turbocharged economics and performance.
5. Cessna Flyer Association - Technical Articles and Maintenance Data
https://cessnaflyer.org
Maintenance guidance, Airworthiness Directives, and owner community experiences.
6. BWI Aviation Insurance - Cessna 206 Insurance Cost Analysis
https://bwifly.com
Annual insurance premium ranges by aircraft configuration and pilot qualifications.
7. AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association)
https://www.aopa.org
General aviation safety records, maintenance resources, and operational guidelines.
8. Backcountry Pilot Forums - Real-World Owner Experiences
Bush flying experiences, maintenance costs, backcountry operation guidance from active 206 operators.
9. Continental Motors - Engine Overhaul Specifications
Engine TBO data, overhaul procedures, and maintenance requirements for IO-520 and TIO-540 engines.
10. General Aviation News - Turbocharged vs. Naturally Aspirated Analysis
Comparative economics and performance analysis of turbocharged vs. naturally aspirated aircraft.
Note on Pricing and Data: This article reflects market conditions and pricing as of October 2025. Aircraft values, fuel prices, insurance rates, and maintenance costs fluctuate based on market conditions, fuel costs, regional factors, and regulatory changes. The figures presented represent typical cases and should be verified with current quotes from aircraft brokers, insurance agents, and maintenance facilities in your specific region before making purchase decisions. Actual costs for bush flying or backcountry operations may be 20-30% higher due to accelerated gear and brake wear.