L-16A (7AC)

Aeronca L-16A Grasshopper

National Warplane Museum

The Aeronca L-16A Grasshopper represents the continuation of the light liaison and observation aircraft lineage developed during World War II. Building on the success of the Aeronca Champion and its wartime Grasshopper counterparts, the L-16A served U.S. military forces in the postwar period as a versatile utility aircraft for observation, reconnaissance, and training roles.

Background

Based on the civilian Aeronca 7AC Champion, the L-16A was adapted for military service in the late 1940s as the U.S. Army Air Forces and National Guard sought economical light aircraft for non-combat support roles. The L-16A closely resembled its civilian counterpart but incorporated military radios, standardized markings, and other modifications to fulfill liaison and artillery spotting missions. Lightweight, simple to maintain, and capable of operating from short, unimproved airstrips, the L-16A provided an ideal platform for close-in battlefield coordination during the early Cold War years.

Use & Purpose

The L-16A primarily performed reconnaissance, artillery observation, forward air control, liaison duties, and light transport, operating alongside larger aircraft and more advanced tactical platforms. Its excellent visibility, short-field performance, and ease of operation made it valuable for both military and National Guard units, particularly in training and domestic support roles.

Museum Example

• Aeronca L-16A Grasshopper (Manufacturer’s No. 7AC-6619 / N# N3033E)

Built in 1946 as a civilian Aeronca 7AC Champion, this airframe was later restored and converted to L-16A configuration by Museum volunteers, with the project completed in 2001. Today, it serves as a highly accurate L-16A replica, visually and operationally representing the military version of this important liaison aircraft. The aircraft remains fully airworthy, flying regularly as part of the Museum’s living collection. It is also available for passenger rides, allowing visitors to experience firsthand the simplicity and charm of one of the most successful light military aircraft of the postwar era.