Number 57 of 100 in 100, the Bellanca Decathlon 🛩️

Conceptualization:

The Bellanca Decathlon emerged at a time when the general aviation community was increasingly interested in aerobatics and upset recovery training. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, pilots sought aircraft that could meet the demands of more complex maneuvers while remaining accessible and affordable. Champion Aircraft Corporation, the original developers of the Decathlon, recognized the market demand for a rugged and more aerobatic-capable version of their already successful Citabria series. With sport aviation on the rise and aerobatic competitions gaining popularity, the need for a robust training aircraft that could handle spins, loops, and rolls without compromising safety was clear. The Decathlon was designed to fill this gap, offering flight schools and private owners an aircraft that could take on demanding aerobatics while also being a reliable platform for tailwheel endorsements and basic pilot training.

Original Design:

The original Bellanca Decathlon built upon the framework of the Citabria but introduced several key design improvements that made it ideal for aerobatic flight. It featured a semi-symmetrical airfoil, which was a major upgrade over the Citabria's flat-bottomed airfoil, allowing the Decathlon to perform equally well in inverted flight. The airframe was strengthened, with the fuselage made from welded metal tubing covered in fabric to balance durability and weight savings. One of the most crucial design elements was the g-load rating, set at +6g and -5g, which allowed the aircraft to perform advanced aerobatic maneuvers safely. The inclusion of a tailwheel configuration helped pilots develop the skills needed for handling conventional-gear aircraft, and its sturdy spring-steel landing gear made the Decathlon resilient to the hard landings common in training environments. These design features, along with its simple and functional cockpit layout, made the Decathlon both a fun and practical aircraft for aerobatic enthusiasts and training programs.

Photo Credit: Vladimir Kostritsa

Principal Designer:

The Decathlon’s design was spearheaded by the engineering team at Champion Aircraft, who were already experienced with light aerobatic aircraft thanks to their work on the Citabria. Their design philosophy revolved around creating an aircraft that was capable in aerobatics while still forgiving enough for training use. Their expertise was evident in how the Decathlon balanced structural strength and light weight—key requirements for aerobatic flight. After Bellanca acquired Champion Aircraft, the team at Bellanca continued to refine the Decathlon's design, leading to the introduction of the Super Decathlon with more powerful engines and upgraded features. 

Production Run:

The Bellanca Decathlon was first produced in 1972, following Bellanca's acquisition of Champion Aircraft in 1970. During Bellanca's ownership, production continued through the 1970s and early 1980s. However, the company's financial troubles led to a halt in production in 1982 when Bellanca declared bankruptcy. In 1988, American Champion Aircraft acquired the rights to the Decathlon and resumed production, introducing new variants and modernizing the aircraft to meet the needs of contemporary pilots. Production has continued since then, with American Champion producing both the Super Decathlon and other upgraded versions. Today, over 6,000 Decathlons have been produced, making it one of the most popular aerobatic trainers on the market.

Evolution:

Since its introduction, the Decathlon has seen several significant upgrades. The most notable was the introduction of the Super Decathlon in 1976, which featured a more powerful 180-horsepower Lycoming AEIO-390 engine, improved aerobatic capabilities, and reinforced airframe components. Under American Champion Aircraft, further improvements included corrosion-resistant materials, updated avionics, and modern cockpit layouts. In later models, avionics options expanded to include GPS, ADS-B, and even glass cockpits. These improvements have kept the Decathlon competitive and relevant as both an aerobatic and cross-country aircraft for recreational pilots.

Photo Credit: airliners.net - Brian Casity

Specifications:

8KCAB Super Decathlon Specifications:

General characteristics

• Crew: one
• Capacity: one passenger
• Length: 22.9 ft (7.0 m)
• Wingspan: 32 ft (9.8 m)
• Height: 7.7 ft (2.3 m)
• Wing area: 169.1 sq ft (15.71 m²)
• Empty weight: 1,340 lb (608 kg)
• Gross weight: 1,950 lb (885 kg) (normal category)
• Fuel capacity: 40 U.S. gallons (150 L; 33 imp gal)
• Powerplant: 1 × Lycoming AEIO-360-H1B four cylinder horizontally-opposed aircraft engine, 180 hp (130 kW)
• Propellers: Hartzell Propeller HC-C2YR-4CF/FC7666A-2
• Propellers: 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) diameter

Performance

• Maximum speed: 155 mph (249 km/h, 135 kn) at sea level
• Cruise speed: 141 mph (227 km/h, 123 kn)
• Stall speed: 53 mph (85 km/h, 46 kn) (clean)
• Never exceed speed: 200 mph (320 km/h, 170 kn)
• Endurance: 3.4 hours at 75% power
• Service ceiling: 15,800 ft (4,800 m)
• g limits: +6/-5
• Rate of climb: 1,280 ft/min (6.5 m/s)
• Wing loading: 10.64 lb/sq ft (51.9 kg/m²)
• Power/Mass: 10 lb/hp

In Comparison to Other Aircraft in its Class:

When comparing the Bellanca Decathlon to other aerobatic aircraft like the Pitts S-2 and Extra 300, its versatility is what sets it apart. With 180 horsepower, the Decathlon is powerful enough for intermediate aerobatic training and recreational flying, though it lacks the high horsepower and extreme performance of the Pitts and Extra, which are designed for advanced competitions with over 260 horsepower. The Decathlon’s +6g/-5g load limits match those of other aerobatic trainers but fall short of the Extra’s higher limits, which allow for more extreme maneuvers. Where the Decathlon shines is in its forgiving handling and adaptability—it’s great for both learning aerobatics and flying cross-country, making it far more practical for everyday use compared to the highly specialized Pitts and Extra. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for pilots seeking a balance between aerobatic capability, affordability, and versatility.

Performance:

Bellanca Decathlon Performance Envelope

V-Speeds (Airspeed Limits):

• Vne (Never Exceed Speed): 200 mph (170 knots, 320 km/h)
• Vno (Maximum Structural Cruising Speed): 149 mph (130 knots, 240 km/h)
• Va (Maneuvering Speed):
• 1,950 lbs: 122 mph (106 knots, 196 km/h)
• 1,600 lbs: 105 mph (91 knots, 169 km/h)
• Vfe (Maximum Flap Extended Speed): 95 mph (83 knots, 153 km/h)
• Vs1 (Stall Speed, Clean): 53 mph (46 knots, 85 km/h)
• Vso (Stall Speed, Landing Configuration): 46 mph (40 knots, 74 km/h)
• Best Rate of Climb (Vy): 80 mph (70 knots, 128 km/h)
• Best Angle of Climb (Vx): 65 mph (56 knots, 105 km/h)

G-Load Limitations (Aerobatic Certification):

• Positive G-Limit: +6g
• Negative G-Limit: -5g

Performance Assessment:

The Bellanca Decathlon’s performance makes it a top choice for both flight training and personal aviation. In training roles, it excels because of its forgiving handling, allowing beginner and intermediate aerobatic pilots to build confidence while mastering essential skills. Its predictable recovery from stalls and spins, combined with a moderate roll rate, makes it perfect for teaching upset recovery and spin training. The tailwheel configuration also offers the challenge needed for pilots pursuing tailwheel endorsements, giving them valuable experience in conventional-gear operations. For personal aviation, the Decathlon is a fun and versatile aircraft, capable of handling both aerobatics and cross-country flights. With a +6g/-5g load capacity, it’s ideal for personal aerobatic practice, while its endurance and efficiency make it practical for everyday use. Overall, its balanced capabilities make it a great choice for pilots in training or those looking to enjoy sport flying.

Photo Credit: airliners.net - Neville Murphy

Safety Record:

The Bellanca Decathlon has a solid safety record, particularly when used within its operational limits. Most incidents involving the Decathlon are related to pilot error, especially during aerobatic maneuvers, where overconfidence or lack of proper training can lead to loss of control. However, the aircraft's excellent spin recovery and robust g-load ratings have helped it maintain a reputation as a reliable and safe aerobatic trainer. As a tailwheel aircraft, the Decathlon requires careful handling during takeoffs and landings, and ground loops—common in tailwheel aircraft—are a known risk. Compared to other aerobatic aircraft like the Pitts S-2 or Extra 300, the Decathlon is more forgiving, making it a safer choice for pilots learning aerobatics.

Acquisition Cost:

When the Bellanca Decathlon was first produced in the 1970s, the acquisition cost ranged from $17,000 to $20,000. Today, the price of a used Decathlon varies widely depending on the year and condition. Older models from the 1970s can typically be found for around $65,000 to $100,000, while more recent Super Decathlon models can sell for as much as $250,000. The cost is influenced by factors such as avionics upgrades and airframe restorations.

Conclusion:

The Bellanca Decathlon continues to be a versatile and reliable aircraft for both aerobatic training and personal aviation. Its rugged design, coupled with strong aerobatic capabilities and forgiving flight characteristics, make it an ideal choice for pilots of all skill levels. With a solid safety record and ongoing production, the Decathlon remains a cornerstone in sport aviation. Whether you’re a flight school looking for an aerobatic trainer or a private pilot wanting an aircraft capable of both cross-country flights and thrilling maneuvers, the Decathlon is a fantastic option.

Photo Credit: airliners.net - Gustavo Corujo - Gusair

Bibliography:

American Champion Aircraft

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) – Aircraft Registry

Aviation Safety Network

Aviation Consumer

Plane & Pilot Magazine

Trade-a-Plane

National Transportation Safety Board Aviation Accident Database

Wikipedia – American Champion 8KCAB Decathlon

Airliners.net – Bellanca Decathlon

Essco Links:

Bellanca Decathlon

Bellanca Citabria

Lycoming O-360

Pitts S-2