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Bellanca Decathlon

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description Bellanca Decathlon Overview

The Bellanca Decathlon is an American two-seat, tandem-seat light aircraft produced in the 1970s as an aerobatic trainer. Developed from the Champion Citabria, it is specifically engineered for flight training and personal aerobatic flying, featuring inverted fuel and oil systems. The tailwheel aircraft is equipped with a Lycoming AEIO-320 piston engine, making it suitable for pilots seeking a capable and responsive aerobatic platform.

help Bellanca Decathlon FAQ

What engine does the Bellanca Decathlon use?

The Bellanca Decathlon is powered by a 150-horsepower Lycoming AEIO-320 engine, which is a fuel-injected variant specifically designed for inverted flight and sustained aerobatics. The "IO" designation indicates fuel injection, which ensures continuous fuel delivery during negative-g maneuvers.

Is the Bellanca Decathlon the same aircraft as the American Champion Decathlon?

The Bellanca Decathlon and the American Champion Decathlon share the same design lineage, as American Champion Aircraft acquired the type certificate and production rights from Bellanca in the 1980s. American Champion continues to produce new Decathlon aircraft alongside the Citabria and Scout models at their factory in Rochester, Wisconsin.

Can the Bellanca Decathlon perform inverted flight and aerobatics?

Yes, the Bellanca Decathlon is fully aerobatic and certified for inverted flight, spins, rolls, and loops. The fuel-injected AEIO-320 engine and inverted oil system allow sustained negative-g operation, which distinguishes the Decathlon from the carbureted Citabria that has more limited inverted capability.

How many seats does the Bellanca Decathlon have and what is the cockpit layout?

The Bellanca Decathlon (designated 8KCAB) is a two-seat aircraft with the pilot and passenger seated in tandem, meaning one behind the other rather than side by side. This tandem configuration is typical for aerobatic trainers because it provides better visibility and a narrower fuselage for improved roll performance.

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