The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association of Australia, today received an exciting ‘sneak-peek’ regarding the refurbishment of it’s Cessna 152 Aerobat, managed by AOPA Australia member and Orange Aero Engineering proprietor – Daniel Thomas.

The works to date have seen the aircraft fully disassembled, with all the major aircraft components enjoying a well earned refurbishment, including a complete Cessna SIDS workup, along with full replacement control cables.  Daniel’s team are now preparing the airframe for a full set of new windows, prior to paint preparation.  The aircraft will also receive a completely new interior and avionics upgrades!

Orange Aero Engineering have generously donated the refurbishment services to AOPA Australia, valued at over $50,000 AUD.

“I am really pleased with the progress that Daniel and his team are making, they’re going above and beyond to ensure that the airplane presents as new.  Both our membership and our future ‘Junior Pilots’ will appreciate their passion and dedication to detail.” – Executive Director, Benjamin Morgan.

The Cessna 152 Aerobat is the first of a number of candidate aircraft planned for refurbishment, and on completion will become part of the soon to be launched AOPA Australia ‘Junior Pilots’ program, a national initiative with the goal of developing and cultivating the next generation of pilots and aircraft owners.  Members and industry supporters can expect to see the brightly coloured aircraft at airshows and events across Australia.

“Almost all aviators remember taking their first flight, the experience so thrilling that the memories last a lifetime… the ‘Junior Pilots’ Cessna 152’s will have a very special responsibility, helping forge powerful impressions on the next generation whilst imprinting the importance and value of the AOPA Australia brand.

“We have a great opportunity to showcase our association’s ability to develop a program that will inject excitement and opportunity into the general aviation industry, encouraging youth across Australia to reach for the skies in pursuit of their aviation futures.

“Already, I have received a great deal of interest from members and industry supporters, asking if the Cessna 152 Aerobat refurbishment program is a prelude to a future aircraft sweepstakes giveaway.  My answer to that question is – why not?

For more information about Orange Aero Engineering, please visit:  www.orangeaero.com.au