About the GRUMMAN AMERICAN AVN. CORP. AA-5A
The Grumman American Aviation Corporation AA-5A, known as the Cheetah, is a notable model in the world of general aviation. The AA-5A is a derivative of the earlier AA-5 Traveler, with improvements aimed at creating a more efficient aircraft. Introduced in the mid-1970s, the Cheetah was built to serve the niche of a light, four-seat aircraft that offered both good performance and cost efficiency, catering primarily to private owners and flying clubs. Its development was largely driven by the ambition to improve upon the shortcomings of the Traveler, particularly in terms of speed and aerodynamic efficiency.
Production of the AA-5A Cheetah began in 1976 and continued until 1979, with approximately 900 units built during this time. The aircraft was constructed with an emphasis on simplicity and durability, using bonded aluminum honeycomb structures which provided a sleek finish and added strength without significant weight. This construction method also contributed to the ease of maintenance, an attractive feature for owners and operators.
Key Features and Capabilities
One of the key benefits of the Cheetah was its balance between performance and economy. The aircraft is powered by a Lycoming O-320-E2G engine producing 150 horsepower, which allowed for a respectable cruise speed of around 127 knots and a range of approximately 500 nautical miles. Its relatively low operating costs made it appealing to budget-conscious pilots while offering better performance compared to its contemporaries in the same category.
The Grumman AA-5A Cheetah gained a reputation for being a reliable and enjoyable aircraft to fly, with responsive handling and good visibility from the cockpit. It effectively filled the gap between basic trainers and more complex, higher-performance aircraft, making it an excellent choice for pilots seeking to advance their flying skills without incurring the higher costs associated with more sophisticated aircraft. Even today, the Cheetah remains appreciated by aviation enthusiasts for its blend of performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.