Outstanding Fully Backcountry-Ready 1958 Cessna 182

The Jim Richmond Backcountry Aviation Foundation proudly announced the Grand Prize for its 2025/2026 charitable raffle: an outstanding, meticulously restored, fully backcountry-ready 1958 Cessna 182 sporting a red on white paint scheme, STOL kit, oversized backcountry tires, and other extensive upgrades.

The straight tail series of Cessna aircraft are iconic in backcountry aviation, and one lucky ticket holder will get to fly this baby home. All ticket proceeds support the JRBAF’s mission to expand public backcountry flying access across the U.S. as well as internationally.

The Cessna 182 was selected for this year’s grand prize because of its overall capability, broad appeal, versatility, and proven performance. The four-place travel airplane can accommodate families, friends, and gear, making it ideal for backcountry flying.

Its tricycle gear configuration provides stability and ease of handling to make it accessible and useful for a wide range of pilots, including those with little or no tailwheel training who still enjoy the backcountry flying experience.

The sturdy build and powerful performance of the 182 strike an ideal balance between utility and accessibility.

Raffle proceeds go directly to funding the Foundation’s initiatives to open Foundation-owned backcountry airstrips to the public. The raffle drawing will be on June 6, 2026.

Features of the Grand Prize Cessna 182:

• STOL Kit & Wing Extensions: Enhanced lift and short takeoff/landing performance
• Reinforced Firewall & Composite Cowling: Rugged and lightweight structural improvements
• Heavy-Duty Nosewheel Fork: Engineered for primitive airstrips and unimproved surfaces
• Oversized Backcountry Tires: Confident handling on rough terrain - on airport or off
• Extended Fuel Capacity: Increased range and versatility for long backcountry missions
• Modern VFR Avionics: Reliable navigation and communication in remote airspace
• No Federal Tax: As is our tradition, JRBAF pays the federal income tax on the grand prize

Brad Damm, Executive Director of JRBAF said, “This is more than just an airplane — it’s a tool for exploration and a symbol of freedom. By entering the raffle, you're not only getting a shot at owning a serious backcountry machine — you're also investing in the future of public access to America’s most remote airstrips.”

The aircraft will be on display at the EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, July 21-27. It will be based at the STOL area near the east end of the ultralight field and will participate in demos each evening.

FMI:  jrbaf.org/