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Soaring Skyward in a 1946 Champ, Tied by an Emotional Family Bond

Old-school flight in an Aeronca Champ ticks one more aviation experience off the to-do list.

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3 min read
A vintage Aeronca Champ aircraft adds another entry to its pilot's "flight accomplishments," as...
A vintage Aeronca Champ aircraft adds another entry to its pilot's "flight accomplishments," as they successfully complete their journey.

Soaring Skyward in a 1946 Champ, Tied by an Emotional Family Bond

In a family with a dominance for all things aviation, I, an enthusiast and aspiring pilot, found myself embarking on an unforgettable journey with an iconic 1946 Aeronca Champ. Growing up, my mother, a free spirit just like the aircraft she loved, sported a black-and-white photograph in her denims and saddle shoes, next to a high-wing aircraft-a Champ, I believe. With its yellow-and-orange paint job, this plane, with its rich history and classic charm, has been a lifelong dream.

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One fine day, I snapped up the opportunity to fly a 1946 yellow-and-orange Champ thanks to none other than its proud owner, retired gentleman Jim McCartney. We first met at the fuel pump at Pierce County Airport-Thun Field in South Hill, Washington. Recognizing my passion for aviation and my desire to fly his vintage Champ, he agreed to let me take the controls. However, getting our schedules to align proved challenging.

McCartney, a 60-something man with a passion for aviation that's as young as his heart, shared tales of his childhood, filled with toy aircrafts and line-controlled models. After purchasing a Rockwell Commander 112, he decided to obtain his private certificate and instrument rating in the 1990s. In the early 2000s, he was offered the chance to fly freight, but he had other plans.

Together, we hopped aboard the vintage Champ, me behind the seat, excited to live my mother's dreams. This flight wasn't about procedures or the numbers; it was all about feeling the aircraft respond under my control. Despite being tailwheel-challenged, I soon found a rhythm, guided by McCartney's patient instructions. With the external radio in hand, we took off and soared through the blue skies above Mount Rainier.

Taking the aircraft by the wings, I felt the liberty that comes from flying a classic Champ. Although my experience was limited, I was no longer a rookie but a pilot. I spoke with McCartney, a non-instructor man with a knack for teaching, and together we explored the skies around South Hill.

Moments like these remind me that aviation connects us all, regardless of time and distance. Flying a 1946 Aeronca Champ with Jim McCartney was more than just a dream come true; it was a testament to the enduring spirit of aviation and the magic of flight.

Do you have a classic aircraft restoration project you're proud of? Share your story with us in the comments!

READ MORE: Aeronca Champ Restoration

READ MORE: EAA AirVenture: A Vintage Aircraft Paradise

  1. In the aviation industry, flight training for classic aircraft like the Cessna or Aeronca Champ offers a unique challenge.
  2. Prior to our flight, I sat at the airport runway, surrounded by airplanes and feeling the anticipation of the upcoming landing.
  3. Acquiring a private certification for flying an aircraft requires extensive flight training, instrument knowledge, and landing practice.
  4. The aviation sports world often features vintage airplanes participating in races or exhibitions, showcasing their historical charm and modern capabilities.
  5. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) sets guidelines for aircraft transportation in terms of air traffic control, flight regulations, and safety standards.
  6. With a revitalized interest in vintage aviation, many airports have expanded or renovated their facilities, dedicating space for classic airplanes and flights.
  7. In the industry, financing for classic aircraft restoration projects can be a struggle, as these projects often require extensive resources and time.
  8. Aviation financing options have expanded in recent years, offering opportunities for individuals to invest in the acquisition and restoration of classic airplanes.
  9. Aviation transportation plays a crucial role in the transportation of goods and goods across the country, contributing significantly to the economy and efficiency of transportation.
  10. From flight training to aircraft restoration, the love for aviation transcends the whirring propellers and the roaring engines, connecting people who share the same passion for aviation sports.

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