Leigh Hubner Photo
Published in Midwest Flyer Magazine October/November 2022 Digital Issue
Leigh Hubner Photo
AOPA selected a Cessna 170B as its 2023 sweepstakes aircraft to showcase how select modifications can drastically expand a commonplace taildragger’s mission. Although the airplane is far from a backcountry performer in its stock condition, the Cessna 170B will soon become ready for even the most challenging backcountry strips.
AOPA will increase the aircraft’s horsepower from 145 to 180; outfit it with bigger tires, a lightweight interior, and modern VFR instruments; and fit it with other modifications, not to mention a dramatic paint scheme perfect for backcountry adventures.
Members got a sneak preview of the aircraft at the AOPA Pavilion at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2022. In the coming months, AOPA will be flying the aircraft to grass airstrips and camping with it off the beaten path.
Stay up to date on the aircraft’s planned appearances, modifications, and more as we follow it through AOPA Pilot magazine, AOPA.org, AOPA’s YouTube channel, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Special thanks to AOPA’s Social Media Marketer, Cayla McLeod Hunt, for this information. Cayla is a private pilot with a love for tailwheel and backcountry aircraft.