Aeronca 11 Chief

The Aeronca 11 Chief, introduced by the Aeronca Aircraft Corporation in 1945, marked the company's post‑World War II return to civil aviation. Designed as a two‑seat, high‑wing monoplane, the Chief combined a simple, rugged airframe with modest performance, appealing to flying clubs and private owners seeking an affordable trainer. The aircraft featured a fabric‑covered steel tube fuselage, wooden wing ribs, and a 65‑horsepower Continental A65 engine, later upgraded to the 75‑hp Continental C‑85 in the 11C model. Its side‑by‑side seating, generous doors, and forgiving stall characteristics made it an excellent platform for student pilots. Production continued until 1951, with more than 1,600 units built, and the type helped sustain Aeronca during a turbulent market transition. The Chief's straightforward construction and low operating costs contributed to the democratization of general aviation in the United States, influencing later light‑sport designs. Today, restored examples are a common sight at vintage airshows, celebrated for their classic lines, reliable handling, and role in bringing affordable flight to a generation of postwar aviators. Variants such as the 11AC and 11B introduced improved cabin glazing and optional radio equipment, while the type's legacy lives on in high‑wing trainers that echo its emphasis on visibility and ease of maintenance.

Aeronca

Classification

Production & History

Design & Classification