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5 of the Best New Aircraft Owner Products Under $500

From a stepladder to a hand-held radio, here's a list of the must-haves every new aircraft owner should have.

Perfect at blocking the sun without restricting vision, Rosen sun visors are well-constructed and function perfectly. [Courtesy: Jason McDowell]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The author recommends several practical upgrades for vintage Cessna aircraft, primarily to enhance safety, convenience, and overall user experience over outdated original components.
  • Key safety and convenience improvements include high-quality Rosen sun visors for better visibility, BAS tail pull handles for easier ground movement without a cumbersome tow bar, and a sturdy Werner stepladder for safe fueling and maintenance.
  • Further functional enhancements comprise a McFarlane vernier mixture knob for precise engine control and a Sporty’s PJ2+ hand-held comm radio as a simple, reliable backup communication device.
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Among all the accessories and modifications I’ve made to my Cessna 170 over the past few years, my Rosen sun visors were the first. 

Rosen Sun Visors ($550)

Moreover, this was the only modification I’d prepared before even taking delivery of my airplane. They’re that good.

Jason McDowell

Jason McDowell is a private pilot and Cessna 170 owner based in Madison, Wisconsin. He enjoys researching obscure aviation history and serves as a judge for the National Intercollegiate Flying Association. He can be found on Instagram as @cessnateur.

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