Aeronca 7AC Specifications
General Characteristics
- Crew: 1
- Capacity: 1 passenger
- Length: 21 ft 6 in
- Wingspan: 35 ft
- Empty Weight: 740 lbs
- Gross Weight: 1,220 lbs
- Fuel Capacity: 13 gallons
- Engine: Continental A65-8 (65 hp)
Performance
- Max Speed: 86 knots (99 mph)
- Cruise Speed: 73 knots (84 mph)
- Stall Speed: 33 knots (38 mph)
- Rate of Climb: 370 feet per minute (fpm)
- Service Ceiling: 12,500 ft
- Range: 270 nautical miles (nm)
Pros of the Aeronca 7AC
- Affordability: One of the most budget-friendly options in the used aircraft market.
- Ease of Entry: The wider cabin and front-seat solo operation make it more accessible than competitors like the Piper Cub.
- Visibility: Offers an impressive 300-degree field of view from the front seat.
- Forgiving Handling: Known for its gentle stall characteristics and forgiving landing gear.
- Low Operating Costs: Fuel burn is approximately 4.5 gallons per hour, making it economical to operate.
- Durability: With proper maintenance, its fabric-covered airframe can last decades.
Cons of the Aeronca 7AC
- Limited Payload: With a gross weight of only 1,220 lbs, carrying two adults with full fuel can be challenging.
- No Flaps: Descents may require slipping techniques.
- Minimal Avionics: Basic instrumentation may not suit pilots looking for modern features.
- Age-related Maintenance Costs: Many Champs are older than their pilots, potentially leading to higher upkeep expenses.
Performance Comparison: Aeronca vs Competitors
The following chart compares the Aeronca 7AC with its primary competitors: Piper Cub, Cessna 120, and Taylorcraft BC12D.
Aircraft | Max Speed (kts) | Cruise Speed (kts) | Stall Speed (kts) | Rate of Climb (fpm) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Aeronca 7AC | 86 | 73 | 33 | 370 |
Piper Cub | 83 | 70 | 38 | 340 |
Cessna 120 | 105 | 90 | 35 | 500 |
Taylorcraft BC12D | 90 | 80 | 32 | 400 |
Key Insights:
- The Aeronca Champ excels in stall speed and affordability but lags behind in maximum speed compared to the Cessna 120.
- Its rate of climb is competitive but slightly lower than the Taylorcraft BC12D and significantly lower than the Cessna.
- The Champ’s wider cabin and better visibility give it an edge in comfort over the Piper Cub.
Performance Chart
Below is a visual representation of how the Aeronca compares to its competitors:Performance Comparison
Why Choose an Aeronca Champ?
The Aeronca Champ is perfect for pilots seeking a simple, nostalgic flying experience. Its affordability and ease of operation make it ideal for low-time pilots or those looking for a weekend flyer. While it may not match the speed or climb performance of some competitors, its charm lies in its practicality and timeless design.If you're considering purchasing an Aero Vodochody or similar aircraft for sale but want something classic and economical, the Aeronca Champ deserves your attention.