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| Fred Harl and Carmelo Turdo |
What's in a name? Well, it means a lot to have American in the name of two aircraft companies that bring about a revival of classic general aviation aircraft as well as with another that introduces imported aircraft to specialty U.S. markets. At EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2015 we visited the exhibits and saw visiting aircraft from these three companies featured here.American Champion Aircraft Corporation manufactures and markets new-build designs based on the Champion line (Champ, Citabria, Decathlon, etc.), introducing this line of classic aerobatic and general aviation aircraft to another generation of aviators. The use of metal spar wings and other modern enhancements have made these 50+ year old designs even better, improving their aerobatic and utility performance and safety. The Rochester, WI company is also known for sponsoring Greg Koontz airshows in the Xtreme Decathlon.
American Legend Aircraft Company produces the Legend Cub, a modern, Light Sport version of the classic Piper Cub. Modifications to the cabin, wing spars and fuel tanks improved the pilot experience, while updates to the electrical system, radios, flight instruments and powerplant transformed the classic design into the modern age. The aircraft comes in kit form and fully assembled factory models, with many options and price ranges to consider. American Legend Aircraft Company operates out of Sulphur Springs, TX.
Americana Aviation seeks to provide the right aircraft for specialty markets in the U.S. and Latin America through its association with aircraft manufacturers Vulcan Air of Italy and Flight Design of Germany. In 2012, Americana became a distributor of Flight Design Light Sport aircraft in the SE U.S., Caribbean and South American markets, and will include the upcoming four-seat General Aviation design as well. In 2014, Americana began partnering with Vulcan Air to market the P68 light twin-engine aircraft for civil and defense uses, including aerial photography and video, surveillance and patrol missions. Americana is based in Miami, FL.
