The Aeronca Champion (Champ) high-wing monoplane 7AC for general aviation in the WOH collection is a 1946 model. Aeronca (a contraction of Aeronautical Corporation of America), was based in Middletown, Ohio. First flown as a prototype in 1944, the 7AC was in production from 1945 to 1948. Aeronca’s total production from 1945 to 1951 (when it ceased operations) was over 8,000 aircraft of which 7,200 were the 7AC model. Like the popular Piper J-3 Cub with which it competed, the Champ features tandem seating. However, while the J-3 model of the Cub is flown solo from the rear seat, the Champ can be soloed from the front, giving improved forward visibility, particularly on the ground and during takeoffs, landings, and climbs. The airframe consisted of metal tubing covered by the fabric.
| Aircraft Name | Aeronca Champ 7AC |
|---|---|
| Specifications | |
| Powerplant | Continental A-65-8 65 hp opposed 4 cylinder (the Champ was also fitted with 65 hp Franklin and Lycoming flat-4 engines) |
| Propeller | wood 2-blade with fixed pitch |
| Length | 21 ft. 6 inches |
| Wingspan | 35.0 ft. |
| Seats | 2 |
| Empty weight | 740 lb |
| Max gross weight | 1,220 lb |
| Fuel Capacity, std | 13 U.S. gallons |
| Performance | |
| Rate of climb, sea level | 370 ft./minute |
| Max level speed, sea level | 95 mph |
| Range | 270 miles |
| Service Ceiling | 12,500 ft. |