The 1946 Aeronca Chief: A Classic Low-Time Aircraft with Fresh Annual

The Aeronca Chief holds a timeless appeal among aviation enthusiasts and pilots seeking an affordable, reliable, and high-performing aircraft. With its charming vintage design, excellent flight characteristics, and reputation for dependability, the Aeronca Chief continues to be a symbol of practical aviation. This blog post delves into the rich history of the Aeronca Chief, its uses, and the Aeronca company itself. We’ll also explore the specifics of a particularly outstanding 1947 Aeronca 11AC Chief currently up for auction, which boasts low time, a fresh annual, and several appealing upgrades.

A Brief History of the Aeronca Chief

The Aeronca Chief first took to the skies in the 1930s, a product of the Aeronautical Corporation of America (Aeronca), founded in 1928. Known for producing light and affordable aircraft, Aeronca quickly earned a reputation for reliability and innovation. The Chief was introduced as a side-by-side seating aircraft to complement the tandem-seating Aeronca Champ. Designed for comfort, visibility, and ease of use, the Chief became popular with private pilots and flight schools alike.

The 11AC Chief model was produced post-World War II, embodied the practical aviation ethos of the era. It was lightweight, featured a simple design, and was powered by efficient engines, making it an affordable option for general aviation enthusiasts. Today, the Aeronca Chief remains a sought-after classic, admired for its vintage charm and enduring functionality.

Uses of the Aeronca Chief

The Aeronca Chief serves a variety of purposes, including recreational flying, flight training, and short-distance travel. Its simple and forgiving flight characteristics make it ideal for new pilots, while its fuel efficiency appeals to budget-conscious aviators. The side-by-side seating arrangement enhances communication and comfort during flight, making it a favorite for scenic flights and aerial photography. For aviation collectors and enthusiasts, the Aeronca Chief represents a piece of history, offering a unique flying experience that modern aircraft cannot replicate.

The 1947 Aeronca 11AC Chief: Low Time, Fresh Annual, and Modern Upgrades

The 1947 Aeronca 11AC Chief is currently available for auction is a stellar example of this iconic aircraft. Let’s explore its detailed specifications and features:

Airframe

The 1947 Aeronca 11AC Chief, registration N3756E, is a well-preserved example of this iconic vintage aircraft. With a total time of 2,871 hours, this Chief has seen limited use over its lifespan, highlighting its low-time status. The airframe is lightweight and practical, offering a useful load of 525 pounds and a stall speed of just 33 KIAS. Its 15-gallon fuel capacity and a range of 330 nautical miles make it ideal for recreational flying and short cross-country trips. The recent annual inspection, completed on February 1, 2024, ensures the aircraft is in excellent condition and ready for immediate use.

Engine

This Aeronca Chief has been upgraded to a Lycoming O-235-C engine, providing 125 horsepower for improved performance and reliability. With just 544 hours since its last overhaul in October 1998, the engine is well within its service life and offers dependable operation. The Lycoming upgrade enhances the aircraft’s versatility, allowing it to handle various flight conditions while maintaining its signature efficiency.

Propeller

The McCauley IC90/LM7249 propeller has approximately 50 hours since its overhaul by Sensenich Propeller Service, Inc., in February 2013. This low-time propeller complements the upgraded engine, delivering smooth and efficient power transfer. Its excellent condition ensures reliable performance, adding to the overall value of the aircraft.

Avionics

The avionics suite in this Aeronca Chief includes a Val Com 760 TSO radio, Narco AT50A TSO transponder, and essential flight instruments such as an altimeter, airspeed indicator, tachometer, and turn coordinator. Additional gauges, including dual oil pressure and temperature, CHT, and EGT, provide comprehensive engine monitoring. These avionics strike a balance between simplicity and functionality, making the aircraft ideal for VFR operations while maintaining its vintage charm.

Interior

The interior of the Aeronca Chief features brown door paneling, a cream-colored headliner, and a black seat, creating a classic and understated aesthetic. The side-by-side seating arrangement enhances communication and comfort for both pilot and passenger, making this aircraft ideal for scenic flights or instructional use. The cabin is clean and well-maintained, reflecting the care given to the aircraft over its lifetime.

Exterior

The exterior of the aircraft was refinished in October 1998 with high-quality fabric covering, painted in Juneau White with striking Pontiac Red accents. The finish remains in excellent condition, with only minor cosmetic imperfections. This timeless color scheme highlights the aircraft’s vintage appeal, ensuring it will stand out at any airfield or aviation event.

Additional Features

This Aeronca Chief includes several modern conveniences, such as an electric starter and a full electrical system, which enhance its usability without compromising its vintage character. The logbooks are complete and well-documented, and there are no known corrosion issues. A minor incident in 1999, where the aircraft veered off a grass runway, is fully detailed in the logbooks and has no impact on the aircraft’s current condition. These features, combined with the aircraft’s low time and fresh annual inspection, make it an exceptional opportunity for collectors and pilots alike.

Auction Details

This exceptional 1947 Aeronca 11AC Chief is being auctioned by Airspace Auctions from January 15 to January 22, 2025. Key details include:

• Starting Bid: $15,000
• Buyer Premium: 6%
• Deposit Required: $2,000

Located in Cisco, TX, this Aeronca Chief represents a rare opportunity to own a low-time, well-maintained, and upgraded example of a vintage aircraft.

Why Choose This Aeronca Chief?

The 1947 Aeronca 11AC Chief stands out for its combination of historical significance, excellent maintenance, and thoughtful upgrades. Its low total time, fresh annual inspection, and performance-enhancing features make it an outstanding value for pilots and collectors alike. Whether you’re seeking a reliable aircraft for leisurely flights or an iconic piece of aviation history, this Aeronca Chief delivers on all fronts.

Don’t miss the chance to bid on this remarkable aircraft and become part of the legacy of the Aeronca Chief.