Champion Aircraft 7gcbc

Single Piston

The Champion 7GCBC Citabria is a two-seat, single-engine tailwheel aircraft designed for aerobatic training and backcountry flying. First introduced in the 1960s by Champion Aircraft (later acquired by Bellanca and then American Champion), the Citabria — "airbatic" spelled backward — became a staple of flight schools and aerobatic clubs across North America. Its steel-tube fuselage, fabric covering, and conventional landing gear give it exceptional durability and short-field performance, making it equally at home on grass strips and remote airstrips as it is practicing loops and spins over training areas. Powered by a Lycoming O-320 or O-360 engine producing 150 to 160 horsepower, the 7GCBC variant features a constant-speed propeller and is certified for basic aerobatics including loops, rolls, and spins. With a maximum takeoff weight of 1,800 pounds and a never-exceed speed of 140 knots, it offers a forgiving yet capable platform for pilots building tailwheel and aerobatic skills. The aircraft's stall speed of 44 knots in landing configuration and robust construction allow operations from unimproved surfaces as short as a few hundred feet. The Citabria remains in production today under American Champion Aircraft, a testament to its enduring design and utility. Its combination of affordability, simplicity, and versatility has made it a favorite among bush pilots, glider tow operators, and aerobatic enthusiasts. SkyMeter has tracked flights across airframes and operators, with the largest observed operator.