California Pilot Wins AOPA Sweepstakes Cessna 182 at EAA AirVenture

Hortman, who became a private pilot and joined AOPA 30 years ago, recently got back into aviation after a long time away. She earned her Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate earlier this year and recently earned a type rating to fly the Cessna Citation Excel, XLS, and XLS+, which she paid for herself.

Hortman's new airplane, a 1958 Cessna 182A, balances modern technology with mid-century character. Prior to its transformation, it started as a bare aluminum shell with a yellow velveteen interior. The paint scheme and interior pay homage to the Cessna 182 that graced the cover of the first issue of AOPA Pilot in March 1958.

AOPA Western Pacific Regional Manager Niki Britton and Features Editor Alicia Herron oversaw the restoration and created the ruse to make sure Hortman came to AirVenture.

“This airplane has come such a long way,” said Herron. “We wanted to honor the aircraft’s roots while making it something a modern pilot would be proud to own.”

Britton added: “It’s always exciting to hand over the keys. The build-up creates a lot of buzz and sharing that moment with the winner is a joy.”

“Every pilot dreams of winning an airplane, and this sweepstakes aircraft was particularly special,” said AOPA President and CEO Darren Pleasance. “Jennifer’s story represents the kind of passion, dedication, and love of flying that defines our community. We couldn’t be more thrilled for her.”

The AOPA sweepstakes giveaway is a long-running tradition and a member favorite. Since 1993, AOPA has given away 27 aircraft to lucky members as part of its mission to inspire and engage pilots across the country.

The next sweepstakes began this week—AOPA will be giving away a beautifully repaired 2024 Aviat Husky in the summer of 2026.