Aircraft overview

The American Champion Decathlon is a two seat, tandem, tailwheel aerobatic aircraft built by American Champion Aircraft in Wisconsin. The Decathlon design traces its certification lineage to the Bellanca 8KCAB of the early 1970s, with American Champion later taking over production and continuing development. It sits between basic tailwheel trainers and higher powered competition aerobatic aircraft, making it relevant to buyers who want one aircraft for spin training, upset recovery, recreational aerobatics and local cross country flying.

Performance & specifications

Most American Champion Decathlon aircraft are 8KCAB models, with performance varying by engine, propeller and equipment. The standard Decathlon is commonly associated with a 150 hp Lycoming AEIO-320, while the Super Decathlon uses a 180 hp Lycoming AEIO-360. Typical cruise speeds are around 110 to 120 knots, with practical range commonly in the 350 to 400 nautical mile area depending on fuel, power setting and reserve. Useful load is often roughly 550 to 650 lb, so buyer attention to actual empty weight is important. Service ceiling is commonly listed around 15,000 ft for the type. The aircraft is stressed for aerobatics and uses a symmetrical wing section, inverted fuel and oil systems on aerobatic versions, and conventional landing gear.

Cabin & avionics

The cabin is narrow and purposeful, with two occupants seated in tandem under a high wing. Visibility is good for maneuvering, although tailwheel ground handling requires normal care and training. Controls are typically stick and rudder pedals in both positions, with the pilot often flying from the rear seat depending on configuration. Avionics are usually simple compared with touring aircraft. Many used examples have VFR panels with a comm radio, transponder, intercom and basic engine instruments. Upgrades may include Garmin GTR or GTN equipment, ADS-B Out, portable GPS integration, digital engine monitors or compact electronic flight displays. Integrated suites such as Garmin G1000 or Garmin Perspective are not typical for the American Champion Decathlon.

Buying & value

Used aircraft should be evaluated for fabric condition, corrosion, landing gear alignment, tailwheel wear, aerobatic history, engine condition and logbook continuity. Particular attention should be paid to wing type, applicable service bulletins, damage history and whether the aircraft has been used primarily for instruction or aerobatics. Common market distinctions include the 150 hp Decathlon, the 180 hp Super Decathlon and later upgraded aircraft with modern radios, ADS-B and cosmetic refurbishment. On PlaneFox, current Decathlon listings show an average asking price of about EUR 188,000, with asking prices ranging from roughly EUR 117,000 to EUR 267,000. In the used market it is positioned as a durable specialty aircraft, valued more for handling, training utility and aerobatic capability than for speed or cabin comfort.