About the GULFSTREAM AMERICAN CORP AA-5A
The Gulfstream American Corporation AA-5A, also known as the Cheetah, is a notable general aviation aircraft that emerged during the dynamic period of the 1970s. Its development was rooted in the design philosophy of offering affordable, efficient, and user-friendly light aircraft for private pilots and flying clubs. As a successor to the Grumman American AA-5 Traveler, the AA-5A incorporated several improvements aimed at enhancing flight characteristics and overall performance. Grumman American Aviation initially produced the AA-5A, but production was later taken over by Gulfstream American Corporation, following a series of corporate transitions. Approximately 900 AA-5A Cheetahs were built between 1975 and 1979, reflecting the aircraft’s popularity and demand during its production run. One of the critical motivations for producing the AA-5A was to capture a segment of the market seeking an efficient, cost-effective, and reliable aircraft with better performance metrics than its predecessor. The AA-5A's design sports a slightly refined aerodynamic profile, featuring a fixed-pitch propeller and a four-cylinder Lycoming O-320 engine that delivers 150 horsepower. These modifications provided modest improvements in cruise speed and fuel efficiency, making the AA-5A a versatile aircraft suitable for cross-country flights as well as local hops. The AA-5A occupies a niche in the general aviation market, appealing primarily to private owners and flying clubs. Its rugged build, forgiving flight characteristics, and cost-effective operation make it an ideal choice for pilot training and recreational flying. The aircraft's distinctive bonded aluminum honeycomb construction offered a unique blend of durability and ease of maintenance. Benefits of the AA-5A include its relatively low operational costs, ease of handling, and the comfort of a roomy cabin with seating for four. The aircraft continues to be cherished by aviation enthusiasts for its blend of practicality, performance, and reliability, making it a classic representation of 1970s general aviation innovation.