Southwest Idaho – The Jim Richmond Backcountry Aviation Foundation (JRBAF) is proud to announce the grand prize for its 2025/26 charitable raffle: a meticulously restored 1958 Cessna 182 Skylane that has been extensively upgraded for aviation adventures in primitive and remote areas.
The straight tail series of Cessna aircraft are legendary in the backcountry — and one lucky ticket holder will take home this iconic aircraft, all while supporting JRBAF’s mission to expand public backcountry aviation access across the U.S. and internationally.
The Cessna 182 was selected as this year’s grand prize because of its broad appeal, versatility, and proven performance. With four seats, it accommodates families, friends, and gear — making it ideal for real-world backcountry flying. Its tricycle gear configuration offers stability and ease of handling, making it accessible to a wide range of pilots, including those with no tailwheel experience. Combined with its rugged built and powerful performance, the 182 strikes the perfect balance between utility and accessibility.
Tickets are on sale now, and proceeds from the raffle directly fund JRBAF’s initiatives to open new foundation-owned backcountry airstrips to the public.
Grand Prize Aircraft Highlights: STOL kit and wing extensions enhance lift and short takeoff/landing performance, reinforced firewall and composite cowling, heavy-duty nosewheel fork engineered for primitive airstrips and unimproved surfaces, oversized backcountry tires, extended fuel capacity, modern VFR avionics, and no federal tax. As is JRBAF’s tradition, it pays the federal income tax on the grand prize.
The airplane will be displayed at EAA AirVenture 2026. It will be based at the STOL corral near the east end of the ultralight field where it will take part in STOL demonstrations each evening.
The raffle drawing will be held on June 6, 2026. For full raffle details, to read the official rules, or to purchase tickets, visit www.jrbaf.org/raffle.
Pilots and aviation enthusiasts are welcome to join the organization at: https://www.JRBAF.org.