AERONCA C-3

1934

Plane & Pilot

Tuesday, February 10, 2009 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By: Omar Filipović

Key Takeaways:

Introduced in 1934 as a two-seat, side-by-side evolution of the C-2 Deluxe, the Aeronca C-3 was produced in "Master" (enclosed cabin) and "Collegian" (open cockpit) versions.
It was originally powered by a 40-hp Aeronca two-cylinder engine, though some active aircraft in the U.S. now feature Lycoming or Continental engines.
Production of both the engine and airframe eventually took place in Britain, where some C-3s are still active, alongside roughly 17 in the U.S. flying with their original Aeronca engines.

See a mistake? Contact us.

The Aeronca C-3 was an offshoot of the C-2 Deluxe. Introduced in 1934, it was similar to the C-2 in structure but was expanded to accommodate side-byside seating for two. The C-3 was produced in two versions. The Master was changed to an enclosed cabin design. The Collegian retained the open cockpit styling and is easily confused with its C-2 predecessor. By this time, the production of both the engine and airframe of the Aeronca took place in Britain where several are still active. In this country, roughly 17 are still flying with the original Aeronca engine. Others in use have Lycomings and Continentals installed.