About MJZ the aircraft

MJZ - Our Workhorse

Our 1979 Cessna 182Q, MJZ, was purchased in 1986, replacing the Maule that just wasn't up to the job. The 182 is known out here as the 'Landcruiser of the air' as it'll take almost any challenge.

There have been a number of modifications and improvements made on MJZ over the years, including oversized tyres, paint jobs and new interiors, the addition of GPS and UHF radios along with the upgrade to a 280HP Continental engine with a 3-blade Scimitar climbing prop. This engine/prop combination gives MJZ both a short take-off capability along with a high-rate of climb, around 1200ft per minute and a cruise speed of around 136knots.

After 6000 flying hours and the punishment of rough bush strips and terrible thermals, MJZ still faithfully performs like new. This has as much to do with God's good grace as well as a high-level of maintenance that is undertaken by Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) in Mareeba.

MJZ (Much Joy and Zeal) continues to serve us well and we pray she will do so well into the future.