Jet-fueled Cessna 182 Makes Cross-country Flight

A Cessna 182 recently flew from Daytona Beach, Fla., to Carlsbad, Calif, running on jet-A. The aircraft is powered by an SMA SR305-230 turbodiesel piston engine, reported AOPA. The 230-hp engine was tested at 100-percent power for the entire flight and showed a 40-percent increase in range over a regular avgas-fueled 182, according to Riley Aero International, the Carlsbad company that is developing the conversion. AOPA reported that Riley also said the airplane flew at 153 kt at 12,000 ft, compared with 139 kt for a stock 182, and ran much quieter. FAA certification for installation is expected early next year. Riley estimates the cost of the upgrade at $110,000, including prop and a Fadec system. Target TBO is 3,000 hr.