BELLANCA 7AC "CHAMP" - Plane + Pilot

1970’72

Plane & Pilot

Tuesday, September 01, 2009 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By: Omar Filipović

Key Takeaways:

The Aeronca Model 7AC Champ was initially produced by Aeronca from 1946 to 1948, with over 7,200 units built.
The 7AC design was reinstated in an improved version after Champion Aircraft Corp. acquired manufacturing rights in 1951 and later merged with Bellanca in 1970.
Key improvements in the reintroduced model included a switch from the original 60-hp Franklin to a 65-hp Continental engine.
This new engine allowed for a redesigned cowling and air scoop, significantly improving forward visibility, alongside other upgrades like a lightweight spring-steel landing gear and modern interior materials.

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During the period between 1946 and 1948, Aeronca built some 7,200 Model 7AC Champs, but the 7AC was dropped from the line when Champion Aircraft Corp. acquired manufacturing rights to the airframe in 1951; however, when Champion merged with Bellanca in 1970, it was decided to reinstate the design in an improved version. Production began sporadically due to the loss of the main production facility in a fire, but soon the Champ was coming off the assembly in increasing numbers. The primary difference in the new 7AC was the use of a 65-hp Continental four-cylinder engine as a replacement for the original 60-hp Franklin two-cylinder, which was no longer in production. Use of the new engine allowed for a redesigned cowling and air scoop that substantially improved forward visibility. Other new features included a lightweight cantilever spring-steel main landing gear and modern materials in interior design.