Aeronca LB

The Aeronca LB, introduced by the Aeronca Aircraft Corporation in 1936, was a lightweight, two‑seat high‑wing monoplane that exemplified the company’s commitment to affordable personal aviation. Developed from the earlier Aeronca C‑2 “Flying Bathtub,” the LB incorporated a more powerful Continental A40‑4 engine delivering 37 hp, a wider cabin, and improved aerodynamics that allowed a cruising speed of 85 mph and a range of roughly 350 miles. Its simple, fabric‑covered steel tube fuselage and all‑metal wing spars made the aircraft both sturdy and inexpensive to maintain, while the side‑by‑side seating arrangement appealed to flight schools and private owners alike. Production ran until 1941, with about 1,200 units built, many of which served as trainers for the Civilian Pilot Training Program that prepared pilots for the looming World War II effort. The LB’s reliable handling, low operating costs, and ease of repair helped broaden access to flying in the United States, influencing later light‑sport designs. Today, restored Aeronca LBs are prized by collectors and vintage‑aircraft enthusiasts for their role in democratizing aviation during the golden age of flight. Their classic lines and modest performance continue to inspire new generations of pilots and restorers.

Aeronca

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