Expert: Marc Eichler - 11/20/2011

Question
Hi! Recently I've been reading about six-seat utility aircraft (eg. pa-32, cessna 185), but I've had many problems finding some basic information. I hope you could help me in some way.
Firstly, who are these planes intended for and what is their main use? Where are they popular?
Secondly, maybe you know about any article or some other source, which could help me find out more.
Yours sincerely,
Jan Rojek

Answer
Well, in one sense think of a plane that size as a car.  Some seat more people then others.  Think of a Cessna 172 as say a 2 door sedan, and the 185 as a 4x4/mini van.  They're both utility aircraft which means they have many many uses, from personal aircraft, to air taxis, to small cargo planes, law enforcement, etc.

If you're looking for more information, I would honestly suggest wikipedia.  I have reviewed articles on both aircraft you named, and find them to be accurate.

Here are two other sites for you:

http://www.airliners.net/aircraft-data/stats.main?id=144  (Cessna 180/185)
http://www.airliners.net/aircraft-data/stats.main?id=306  (Piper PA-32)

Let me know if I can be of any further assistance, and please don't forget to rate this answer.

Regards,

Marc