About the AERONCA 7EC
The Aeronca 7EC, also known as the Aeronca Champ, is a noteworthy aircraft in the world of general aviation. Born out of the post-World War II aviation boom, it is a variant of the Aeronca Model 7 Champion series, which was primarily designed for use as a light sport and training aircraft. The 7-series champions were developed by the Aeronautical Corporation of America (Aeronca), a company established in 1928 in Cincinnati, Ohio, which later moved to Middletown, Ohio, in the 1940s. Aeronca was well-regarded for producing affordable and reliable aircraft for civilian use. The 7EC model was introduced in 1955 and was produced until 1958, with production resuming in the late 1970s under the Champion Aircraft Corporation after a resurgence in interest for simple, affordable aircraft. The 7EC was equipped with a 90-horsepower Continental C-90 engine, which gave it more power than its predecessors, making it more popular among private pilots and flight schools. This aircraft was renowned for its docile handling characteristics and affordable operational costs, attracting both novice and experienced pilots. It had a tandem seating arrangement, which was ideal for instructional purposes, and a conventional landing gear (taildragger) configuration. A distinguishing feature of the 7EC was its simplicity and ease of maintenance, which made it a favorite among aviation enthusiasts and flight schools. Its rugged construction and forgiving flight envelope made learning to fly less intimidating for student pilots. Additionally, its ability to operate from short and unpaved runways expanded its utility, especially in rural areas. The 7EC has cemented its legacy as a reliable, durable, and beloved aircraft, embodying the spirit of grass-roots aviation. Its simplicity and effectiveness continue to make it a popular choice in classic aircraft circles today, embodying an era of aviation that prized straightforward design and ease of use.