Cessna 337 Skymaster Cost of Ownership: Centerline Thrust Twin Training Platform
The Cessna 337 Skymaster is a distinctive twin-engine aircraft with a unique centerline thrust configuration—engines mounted fore-and-aft on the fuselage centerline rather than on the wings. This innovative design provides significant advantages for twin-engine training while maintaining economical operation. Produced from 1965 to 1980, the Skymaster remains a popular choice for training operations. Here's the complete financial breakdown.
Cost Overview: Cessna 337 Skymaster
Purchase Price
$70,000–$235,000
Annual Fixed Costs
$7,000–$8,500
Hourly Operating Cost
$180–$220/hr
Fuel Burn
20–21 GPH
Purchase Cost: Finding Value in Unique Twin Design
The Cessna 337 Skymaster was produced in multiple variants including the original 337 (1965-1968), improved 337B (1968-1971), 337E and 337G models (1971-1975), and the final 337H-II (1975-1980). Turbo variants (T337) were also produced. The design remained relatively consistent throughout production.
Current Market Prices (2024-2025):
Used Cessna 337 Skymaster aircraft range from $70,000 (high-time early models) to $235,000 (late-model 337H-II with low hours and modern avionics). Typical good-condition examples from the 1970s-1980s average $120,000-$180,000. Turbo variants and specially equipped examples may cost slightly more.
What Affects Pricing: Engine time since major overhaul is critical. Aircraft with 0-300 SMOH on both engines command premiums. The unique centerline thrust configuration means parts availability differs from conventional twins, which some buyers consider a negative. Complete maintenance records supporting the centerline thrust configuration are valued. Paint quality and interior condition significantly impact valuation.
Fuel Consumption and Operating Economics
The Cessna 337 is known for reasonable fuel consumption compared to conventionally-configured twins. Its centerline thrust configuration and aerodynamic design contribute to efficiency.
Fuel Burn Specifications:
The Cessna 337 burns approximately 20-21 gallons per hour combined at cruise power (75%). This is better than the heavier Cessna 310 (27-28 GPH) and competitive with the Piper Comanche. This translates to fuel costs of:
- At $5.00/gallon: $100-$105 per flight hour
- At $5.40/gallon: $108-$114 per flight hour
- At $6.00/gallon: $120-$126 per flight hour
Fuel represents approximately 55-65% of hourly variable operating costs. The Skymaster's centerline thrust configuration allows maintaining control on either engine—a significant advantage for training—while its fuel economy remains competitive with other light twins.
Engine Overhaul and Maintenance
The Cessna 337 uses proven Continental engines with straightforward overhaul and maintenance processes, though the centerline thrust configuration requires some unique considerations.
Engine Specifications:
Most 337s use twin Continental O-320, O-360, or IO-360 engines producing 160-210 HP each, with 1,500-2,000 hour TBO depending on variant. Engine overhauls cost approximately $14,000-$22,000 per engine (total for both engines: $28,000-$44,000). Engine reserves should be budgeted at $20-$30 per flight hour.
Annual Maintenance:
Annual inspection typically costs $1,500-$2,000. Total annual maintenance including inspection, routine maintenance, and reserves averages $3,500-$4,500. The centerline thrust configuration's unique aspects are well-understood by experienced technicians.
Why Skymaster Maintenance is Reasonable: Continental engines are widely supported. The centerline thrust configuration, while unusual, has been proven in thousands of flight hours. Parts availability is good. Many technicians specializing in training aircraft are familiar with Skymaster maintenance procedures.
Insurance and Pilot Requirements
Annual Insurance Costs:
Insurance for a Cessna 337 Skymaster ranges $2,800-$3,600 per year for comprehensive hull and liability coverage. The Skymaster's excellent twin-engine safety record keeps insurance costs reasonable.
Pilot Requirements: Multi-engine endorsement required. The Skymaster's benign single-engine handling due to centerline thrust makes it an excellent training platform for pilots building multi-engine skills.
Total Cost of Ownership: Cessna 337 Skymaster
Annual Scenario: 100 Hours Flying/Year
| Expense Category | Annual Cost | Per Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel (20.8 GPH @ $5.40/gal) | $11,232 | $112.32 |
| Oil & Misc Variable | $400 | $4.00 |
| Engine Reserve (2 engines) | $1,500 | $15.00 |
| Maintenance Reserve | $1,200 | $12.00 |
| Annual Inspection | $1,500 | $15.00 |
| Insurance | $3,200 | $32.00 |
| Tie-Down Storage | $1,200 | $12.00 |
| Subscriptions & Misc | $650 | $6.50 |
| TOTAL | $20,882 | $208.82 |
Annual Scenario: 200 Hours Flying/Year
| Expense Category | Annual Cost | Per Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel (20.8 GPH @ $5.40/gal) | $22,464 | $112.32 |
| Oil & Misc Variable | $800 | $4.00 |
| Engine Reserve (2 engines) | $3,000 | $15.00 |
| Maintenance Reserve | $2,400 | $12.00 |
| Annual Inspection | $1,500 | $7.50 |
| Insurance | $3,200 | $16.00 |
| Tie-Down Storage | $1,200 | $6.00 |
| Subscriptions & Misc | $650 | $3.25 |
| TOTAL | $35,214 | $176.07 |
At 200 annual hours, total ownership costs run approximately $35,214 per year, with per-hour costs dropping to $176. This is attractive for flight training operations conducting regular multi-engine instruction.
Why Own a Cessna 337 Skymaster?
- Benign Single-Engine Handling: Centerline thrust reduces asymmetric thrust difficulty—ideal for training
- Economical Operation: Lower fuel burn than comparable conventional twins
- Proven Design: Thousands of hours logged demonstrating reliability and safety
- Training Suitability: Excellent multi-engine trainer with predictable handling
- Affordable Acquisition: Lower price than many comparable twin-engine aircraft
- Responsive Handling: Light control forces make it pleasant to fly
- Flight School Adoption: Increasingly recognized as excellent training platform
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a used Cessna 337 Skymaster cost?
Used Cessna 337 Skymaster prices range from $70,000 (high-time, early 1970s models) to $235,000 (late-model 337H-II with low hours and modern avionics). Typical good-condition examples from the 1970s-1980s average $120,000-$180,000. Turbo variants cost slightly more.
How much fuel does a Cessna 337 burn?
The Cessna 337 Skymaster burns approximately 20-21 GPH at cruise power, making it relatively economical for a twin-engine aircraft with its unique centerline thrust configuration. This translates to fuel costs of roughly $108-$127 per flight hour at current Avgas prices of $5-$6 per gallon.
What is the Cessna 337 engine overhaul cost?
Cessna 337 engines (twin Continental IO-360, O-320, or O-360 variants) have 1,500-2,000 hour TBO depending on variant. Each engine overhaul costs approximately $14,000-$22,000. Total overhaul costs for both engines range $28,000-$44,000. Engine reserves should be budgeted at $20-$30 per flight hour.
What are annual insurance costs for a Cessna 337?
Annual insurance for a Cessna 337 Skymaster ranges $2,800-$3,600 depending on pilot experience, hull value, and coverage. Insurance costs are moderate compared to other light twins, reflecting its solid safety record.
What is the total annual cost to own a Cessna 337?
At 100 hours of annual flying, total ownership costs average approximately $18,000-$22,000 per year, or $180-$220 per flight hour. Higher utilization significantly reduces per-hour costs, with 200-hour users experiencing per-hour costs approaching $150.
Is the Cessna 337 suitable for flight training?
Yes. The Cessna 337 Skymaster is excellent for multi-engine training due to its centerline thrust configuration (reducing single-engine handling difficulty), responsive controls, and economical operation. Many flight training organizations use the 337 for twin training.
What is useful load for a Cessna 337?
The Cessna 337 has a useful load of approximately 1,400-1,600 pounds depending on model. This allows carrying four adults plus baggage and reasonable fuel reserves. The high-wing configuration provides good visibility for training.
How does the Cessna 337 Skymaster compare to other light twins?
The Cessna 337 offers unique centerline thrust configuration, reducing single-engine handling compared to conventional twins. It burns less fuel than comparable 310/340 models. The push-pull engine configuration makes maintenance slightly different. Popular for training due to benign handling characteristics.
Ready to Own a Cessna 337 Skymaster?
The Cessna 337 Skymaster offers a unique combination of economical twin-engine operation and excellent training characteristics. The centerline thrust configuration provides advantages for pilots building multi-engine skills.
Use our affordability calculator to evaluate Cessna 337 financing options and explore ownership paths for this distinctive twin-engine trainer.
Sources and Citations
1. Pilot Passion - Cessna 337 Skymaster Cost Analysis (2025)
Comprehensive pricing data and operating cost analysis for multiple 337 variants including Turbo models.
2. PlanePhD - Cessna 337 Specifications & Valuation Database
Detailed PAPI pricing estimates, performance specifications, and historical cost data across production years.
3. Aviation Consumer - Cessna 337 Used Aircraft Review
Market analysis, maintenance considerations, and buyer guidance for Cessna 337 purchasers.
4. Cessna Owner Organization - Twin Cessna Technical Resources
Maintenance guidance and owner community insights specific to Cessna light twin models.
5. Aircraft Cost Calculator - Cessna 337 Operating Cost Models
Detailed hourly operating cost analysis with variable scenarios and fuel pricing.
Note on Pricing and Data: This article reflects market conditions and pricing as of October 2025. Aircraft values, fuel prices, and insurance rates fluctuate based on market conditions. All figures represent typical cases and should be verified with current quotes before making purchase decisions.