Come see ‘your’ airplane at OSH

While the backcountry wannabe (going-to-be) is close to its goal, the custom paint scheme is not yet applied, and a bare aluminum airplane will be on display at the AOPA tent at EAA AirVenture July 24 through 30.

But wait, you’ll want to see this: The 170’s new custom panel features an impressive display of modern avionics from several different manufacturers. An Aspen Avionics Evolution E5 dual electronic flight instrument; PS Engineering PMA8000G audio panel; and Garmin GI 275 engine indication system, GNC 255 nav/com, GNC 355 GPS/com, GTX 345 ADS-B In/Out transponder, and GSB 15 USB power input will not only make the airplane more enjoyable to fly, but also much safer. The Cessna 170 spent all spring receiving these drastic panel upgrades and we want you to see it, which is why the paint is not yet on.

AOPA selected this 1953 Cessna 170B as the 2023 sweepstakes aircraft to showcase how select modifications can drastically expand a commonplace taildragger’s mission. Gardner Lowe Aviation Services at Atlanta Regional Airport/Falcon Field, in Georgia, handled the panel upgrade.

“I’m excited that we can take an older airframe…and make it more functional for everyday use,” said Karl Gardner. “But I’m also really excited that we are going to be able to make a safer airplane for somebody that’s going to win it, and they’ll be able to use it for years to come.”

After EAA AirVenture, the airplane will be flown to Hawk Aircraft Services in Zephyrhills, Florida, for its brand-new paint.

aopa.org/sweeps