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Cessna 170

Image
Cessna taildragger on airport tarmac
Stats
Registration
N9161A
Color
Red / White
Seats
2
IFR Certified
No
Category
Airplane
Class
Single-Engine Land
Certification Category
Normal
Gear Type
Conventional (Tail-Wheel)
Retractable Gear
No
Airplane

The Cessna 170B is a classic, single-engine, four-seat general aviation aircraft produced by Cessna between 1952 and 1956. It was an upgraded version of the original Cessna 170, known for its versatility, reliability, and suitability for both paved and backcountry operations.

Key Features:

  1. Wing Design:
    • The 170B introduced full-span, slotted flaps (similar to the Cessna 172), which improved low-speed handling and short-field performance.
    • The semi-tapered wing design gave it better aerodynamics compared to the straight wings of earlier models.
  2. Engine:
    • Powered by a Continental C-145 or O-300-A engine, a six-cylinder, air-cooled, horizontally opposed engine producing 145 horsepower.
  3. Landing Gear:
    • Retains the taildragger (tailwheel) configuration, popular among bush pilots for rough-field capability.
  4. Performance:
    • Cruise speed: ~120 mph (104 knots).
    • Range: ~720 nautical miles.
    • Service ceiling: ~15,500 feet.
    • Useful load: ~900 lbs, depending on the configuration.
  5. Build & Comfort:
    • Durable all-metal construction with fabric-covered control surfaces.
    • A roomy cabin with seating for four, including pilot.
  6. Popularity:
    • A favorite among vintage aviation enthusiasts and bush pilots for its ruggedness and reliability.
    • It laid the groundwork for the popular Cessna 172, which became the world’s best-selling aircraft.

Overall, the Cessna 170B remains a sought-after aircraft for those who enjoy vintage aviation, backcountry flying, or reliable cross-country capability in a timeless design.