About the GRUMMAN AMERICAN AVN. CORP. AA-5B
The Grumman American Aviation Corporation AA-5B, commonly known as the Tiger, is a well-regarded aircraft in the realm of general aviation. The AA-5 series stemmed from Grumman's earlier work with the American Aviation AA-1 Yankee and AA-1A Trainer. The evolution towards the AA-5 series was motivated by the desire to create a more versatile and powerful four-seater aircraft that could cater to both personal and training purposes. The initial model in this lineage, the AA-5 Traveler, was introduced in 1971, but it would be the AA-5B Tiger, introduced in 1974, that left a lasting legacy in general aviation circles.
The production of the AA-5B Tiger ran from 1974 to 1979, and during this period, around 1,323 units were manufactured. The Tiger was designed to fill a niche for an aircraft that could provide enthusiastic private pilots with an engaging flying experience while also being robust enough for the rigors of flight training. It was engineered with a bonded aluminum honeycomb fuselage and wings, providing strength and resilience while keeping the airframe light. This construction method also allowed for smoother surfaces and less drag, enhancing the aircraft’s overall performance.
Key Features and Capabilities
The AA-5B Tiger is characterized by its 180 horsepower Lycoming O-360 engine, giving it a cruising speed of about 139 knots (160 mph) and a range of approximately 600 nautical miles. The aircraft features a spacious cabin that can comfortably accommodate four adults, making it an excellent choice for cross-country trips. While its handling is notably nimble and responsive, it is also predictable and forgiving, attributes that make it a favorable option for training new pilots.
Following the cessation of production by Grumman American in 1979, rights to the aircraft changed hands multiple times, with American General Aviation Corporation attempting a limited revival in the early 1990s. Despite the production challenges, the AA-5B Tiger remains a beloved aircraft among aviation enthusiasts for its build quality, performance, and versatility.