Photographed by Dana Patton at the 2003 Cessna 150-152 Club
National Fly-in.
Year: 1965 Model:
150E Serial#:
15061277
505 of 760, 1965 150E's manufactured
3,276 of 21,404, 150's manufactured in
the U.S.A.
Michael Bratton's "Air Force" Straight
Tail N3577J N3577J started
out as a trainer complete with HD nose gear, 6” main tires, and a vacuum system
from 1965 to 1975. Eighty percent of the aircrafts total time was during that
period. The aircraft went from one owner to another from 1976 to 1992 getting
only 25-35 hours per year put on it. In 1992 the owner had the exterior painted
to the air force scheme and leather seats installed so his daughter could learn
to fly in style. I purchased the aircraft in 1998 (mid-life crisis thing) and
began flying again for the first time since 1970 and putting 75-100 hours per
year on the plane. Currently has 6,971 on the tach and the engine is being
pulled out for a major overhaul. Since
purchasing the aircraft I have added a Whelen Rotating Beacon, Bracket Air
Filter, Carb Ice Detector, Loran, C-Mods Belly Drain, Intercom & accessory
panel, Univair wheel covers, and a wood decorative panel which I made myself.
With the engine overhaul I will be adding a oil filter adaptor and a vernier
mixture control. Overall, flying N3577J is a joy
and one of the greatest stress relievers I have found. As soon as the engine
fires all earthly concerns just go away. She also has a nose for those weekend
pancake fly-ins within a 100 miles. Club member Jessica Braddock helps with the
maintenance of the plane.
Landing Contest touchdown at Clinton 2003.
View Other Cessna 150-152 Club Airplanes of the Month
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