The Cessna 185 is a high-winged aircraft with non-retractable conventional landing gear and a tailwheel.

The exception was that a Continental Motors IO-470-F engine of 260 hp (194 kW) was initially fitted until midway through the 1966 production year.

The AgCarryall variant of the 185 adds a 151-gallon belly chemical tank and removable spray booms for aerial application.

It is also possible to fit a cargo pod under the fuselage that can carry an extra 300 lb (136 kg).

The 180 and 185 are widely used in bush flying, the commercial transport of passengers and freight to rudimentary, remote airstrips, lakes and snowfields, primarily in Canada and Alaska.