Aviation Foundation Raffles Three Piper J-3 Cubs
The Jim Richmond Backcountry Aviation Foundation is raising funds to support backcountry access through a new raffle.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Philanthropy
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The Jim Richmond Backcountry Aviation Foundation has launched a raffle featuring three Piper J-3 Cub aircraft as grand prizes. Proceeds from the campaign will support the development of public-use backcountry destinations and the preservation of aviation access to remote public lands.
Why it matters
The raffle serves as a primary funding mechanism for initiatives aimed at maintaining aviation infrastructure in wilderness areas. By covering federal taxes for winners, the organization removes a significant financial barrier for participants.
Each $50 raffle ticket provides three chances to win a Piper J-3 Cub aircraft. The grand prize package includes a weeklong stay for up to six guests at the 45 Ranch property in Idaho.
The players
Jim Richmond Backcountry Aviation Foundation
This charitable organization focuses on developing public-use backcountry destinations and preserving aviation access to remote public lands.
CubCrafters Services
This aviation company serves as the grand prize sponsor for the foundation's charitable raffle.
The details
The 45 Ranch is located in the Owyhee Canyonlands and is accessible via 54 miles of dirt and gravel roads. The site features a 2,700-foot grass airstrip at a field elevation of 4,300 feet.
Timeline
The foundation's charitable raffle period runs through 2026 and 2027.
Winners may schedule their 45 Ranch property stay during 2027 or 2028.
Market Landscape
This fundraising effort aligns with the broader trend of utilizing niche aviation community raffles to support the preservation of backcountry aviation access. It positions the foundation to maintain infrastructure that might otherwise struggle for state or federal upkeep.
Residents and pilots can participate in the raffle for $50 per ticket, which includes a tax-covered prize for the aircraft winners. Participants should plan for potential travel to the Owyhee Canyonlands in 2027 or 2028 if they win the ranch stay.
The takeaway
This raffle provides an accessible way for individuals to support the maintenance of remote airstrips while potentially winning a historic aircraft. Participants should keep in mind that the ranch prize requires travel to a remote location accessible primarily by specialized vehicle or aircraft.
Further reading
Learn more about local charitable efforts in the Philanthropy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by General Aviation News.
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