About the AMERICAN LEGEND AIRCRAFT CO AL18
The American Legend Aircraft Company introduced its AL18 model as an evolution of the beloved Piper J-3 Cub, aimed at capturing the spirit and joy of the classic light-sport aviation era while incorporating modern advancements and conveniences. The AL18, also known as the Legend Cub, made its mark in the early 2000s, with the first models delivered around 2005. The company, founded in 2000 by aviation enthusiasts Darin Hart and John Tomlinson, sought to provide aviators with a modern, yet nostalgically reminiscent, flying experience that paid homage to the iconic J-3 Cub’s design and performance standards. The AL18 was designed and meticulously crafted in Sulphur Springs, Texas, where the American Legend Aircraft Company is headquartered. This location has become a hub for craftsmen and engineers dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of aircraft production. The AL18 is a two-seat, high-wing, single-engine aircraft that fits into the Light-Sport Aircraft (LSA) category. Its design features a rugged steel tube fuselage covered with fabric, maintaining a vintage aesthetic while integrating contemporary materials and avionics. The aircraft is powered by the reliable Continental O-200 engine, offering a balanced compromise between power and efficiency. The AL18 serves a niche market of pilots who deeply value the hands-on, stick-and-rudder flying experience that harkens back to the golden age of aviation. Its simplicity and reliability make it a perfect choice for flight schools, leisurely weekend flying, and even light backcountry exploration. The versatility and approachable nature of the AL18 allow it to operate effectively from short, unimproved airstrips, broadening the horizons for pilots and offering access to remote destinations. The AL18's success can be attributed to its blend of tradition and innovation, providing aviators with a dependable, familiar, and joy-filled flying experience. The American Legend Aircraft Company continues to produce variations of the Legend Cub, each iteration improving on the last while staying true to the philosophy that made the J-3 Cub a timeless classic. The AL18 encapsulates this mission by ensuring that the spirit of early aviation continues to thrive in the modern era.