American Champion Aircraft: A Pilot's Dream
American Champion Aircraft offers a range of exceptional planes that cater to pilots seeking versatility, performance, and reliability. Let's explore three popular models: the Citabria Explorer, Super Decathlon, and Citabria Adventure.
Aircraft
| Model name | First flight | Number built | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7EC Champ | 1944 | 2 seat general aviation aircraft | |
| 7ECA/7GC Citabria | 1964 | 2 seat general aviation aircraft | |
| 8GCBC Scout | 1974 | 500 | 2 seat general aviation aircraft |
| 8KCAB Decathlon | 1970 | 1,000 | 2 seat general aviation aircraft |
| 8KCAB Super Decathlon | 1990 | 1,050 | 2 seat general aviation aircraft |
| 8KCAB Extreme Decathlon | 2012 | 30 | 2 seat general aviation aircraft |
American Champion Aircraft (ACA) currently produces FAA certified light acrobatic and utility aircraft for pleasure, work, training, and true excitement.
The long standing design has proven stable and comfortable for over 50 years. The aircraft are a stronger, better built, better handling aircraft because of generations of refinement. Our privately owned company assures that the planes are built right, and not under the pressure of corporate cost / profit / production projections.
ACA has owned the type certificate to the Model 7 and Model 8 Champion Line since 1988, and has been supplying parts from the very beginning. New aircraft manufacture began in 1990 and has continued to grow since.
ACA's line of “Champs” is centered around the design change of metal spar wings, offering a more stable and sturdy platform than before. The line of Aircraft continues to be improved and modernized, is 100% FAA certified, and is still the most versatile and affordable two seat tandem tail-dragger in its class.
Citabria Explorer 7GCBC
The Citabria Explorer is a versatile aircraft perfect for both training and recreational flying. It features a powerful Lycoming O-320-B2B engine, producing 160 horsepower at 2700 rpm. This robust powerplant enables impressive performance, with a maximum level speed of 132 mph at sea level and a service ceiling of 15,500 feet.
Avionics and Instruments
The Explorer comes equipped with modern avionics, including:
- EI CGR-30P Engine Monitor
- Digital Clock
- Backlit Magnetic Compass
- Emergency Locator Transmitter
- Twin Headset Lemo Jacks
Additionally, the aircraft features LED pulse landing lights and LED navigation/strobe/position lights for enhanced visibility.Performance Highlights
- Takeoff distance (ground roll): 412 feet
- Rate of climb at sea level: 1130 fpm
- Cruise speed at 75% power: 126 mph
- Maximum range (55% power): 551 miles
Super Decathlon 8KCAB
For pilots seeking aerobatic capabilities, the Super Decathlon is an excellent choice. It boasts a Lycoming AEIO-360-H1B engine with 180 horsepower and inverted fuel/oiling systems.
Advanced Features
- MT Propeller MTV-15-B-C-/C188-34 (74″ 2-Blade, Composite, Acrobatic, Constant Speed)
- Certified Fully Acrobatic (+6g, -5g)
- 40-gallon fuel system
Performance Specs
- Maximum level speed at sea level: 155 mph TAS
- Service ceiling: 16,000 feet
- Rate of climb at sea level: 1130 fpm
Takeoff distance (ground roll): 580 feet
Citabria Adventure 7GCAA
The Citabria Adventure strikes a balance between performance and affordability. It shares the same Lycoming O-320-B2B engine as the Explorer, delivering 160 horsepower.Key Features
- Sensenich 74DM6S8-1 propeller (73″ aluminum fixed pitch)
- Certified Limited Acrobatic (+5g, -2g)
- 36-gallon fuel system
Performance Data
- Maximum level speed at sea level: 140 mph
- Service ceiling: 15,000 feet
- Rate of climb at sea level: 1167 fpm
- Maximum range (55% power): 556 miles
All three aircraft models offer excellent visibility, comfortable interiors, and modern safety features. Furthermore, they come standard with dual flight controls, making them ideal for training purposes.In conclusion, American Champion Aircraft provides pilots with high-quality, versatile planes suitable for various flying needs. Whether you're looking for a trainer, an aerobatic performer, or a reliable recreational aircraft, these models offer outstanding performance, modern avionics, and the flexibility to tackle diverse flying missions.
