This 1948 Cessna 170 Is a Classic ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

Fresh fabric wings, classic lines, and updated Garmin avionics highlight the first-year taildragger.

FLYING Staff

Thursday, August 13, 2026 at 11:30 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

1948 Cessna 170 [Credit: Hiller Aviation]

Key Takeaways:

The article highlights a 1948 Cessna 170 as "Today's Top Pick" from Aircraft For Sale, noted for its historical significance as a foundational light aircraft and its classic taildragger flying experience.
This vintage aircraft, located in La Grande, Oregon, has 3,151 total flight hours with complete logbooks and features freshly recovered wings (Oct 2023) and an annual inspection valid through July 2026.
It is powered by a 145 hp Continental O-300-C engine with 1,502 hours since installation and includes modern avionics such as Garmin GTR 200B com and GTX 327 transponder.
Listed at $47,500, this well-maintained Cessna 170 offers an accessible opportunity to own and fly a piece of aviation heritage.

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Every day, the team at Aircraft For Sale chooses an airplane that catches our attention because it is unique, a good deal, or has other qualities we find interesting. You can read Aircraft For Sale: Today’s Top Pick at FLYINGMag.com daily.

Today’s Top Pick is a 1948 Cessna 170.

The Cessna 170 represents the dawn of one of the most successful lines of light aircraft ever produced. Prized for its classic taildragger handling and timeless ramp appeal, this foundational model offers pilots an authentic vintage flying experience coupled with reliable, steady performance.

Situated in La Grande, Oregon, the first-year airframe has accrued 3,151 total flight hours and features complete logbooks dating back to its original delivery in 1948. The wings were freshly recovered using the Stewart Systems fabric covering system with a UV barrier applied and subsequently refinished in October 2023 with Stewart Systems EkoPoly.

The airplane boasts an annual inspection completed in July 2026, ensuring the aircraft is airworthy and ready for its next caretaker.

A robust 145 hp Continental O-300-C engine sits up front that has logged 1,502 hours since installation. Solid compression numbers were noted at the recent annual, and the powerplant was upgraded with new magnetos in April 2025. It reliably spins a McCauley fixed-pitch propeller to pull the classic machine gracefully through the air.

Navigating modern airspace is made considerably easier by an avionics suite that bridges the gap between classic aviation and contemporary technology. A newer Garmin GTR 200B com radio and Garmin GTX 327 transponder handle crucial communication and squawk duties, complemented by a Narco MK12A nav/com and VOA4 indicator. A 406 MHz ELT with a battery good through September 2028 provides additional safety for peace of mind.

Rounding out the aircraft’s functional upgrades are Cleveland wheels and brakes, Brackett air filter, Whelen self-contained strobe, and Cessna cabin heat system for comfortable cruising. Additionally, a dorsal fin installed per FAA Form 337 adds a unique touch to the profile of this historic bird.

Listed at $47,500, this straight 1948 Cessna 170 presents a remarkable chance to own and fly an accessible piece of aviation heritage.

If you’re exploring ownership options, FLYING Finance can help get you airborne. Use our airplane loan calculator to estimate your monthly payments, or connect with an aviation finance expert at flyingfinance.com.