Allows Greater Payload, Fuel... And Options

American Legend Aircraft Company announced Friday the company has reduced the empty weight on its popular Legend Cub airplane.

Following an extensive review of the design of the Legend Cub, the company has determined new empty weights for its three base models as follows. The open cowl model, or J-3 style, with a Continental O-200 engine weighs in at 830 lbs. A closed cowl version, or PA-11 style, with the same engine weighs in at 845 lbs. The lightest weight unit features a Jabiru, 3300A engine and is available in a closed cowl. This model weighs in at 800 lbs.

Any reduction in empty weight -- and, by extension, useful load -- is welcome, especially as American Legend reports its customers are opting for a variety of equipment on their planes. In addition to the cowl and engine choices, customers can choose from a number of other options including glass-panel avionics, a leather interior, and safety features such as a BRS parachute. The reduction in empty weight allows customers more flexibility in adding options.

Gross weight for the Legend Cub S-LSA continues to be 1,320 lbs. for land aircraft and 1,430 lbs. for float-equipped aircraft, as specified by ASTM standards.

“We looked closely at all areas of the aircraft's design. After identifying areas for improvement, we have performed the necessary design, sourcing, and testing to move the improvements into production for our current aircraft," said Kurt Sehnert, GM at American Legend. "We focused on the fuselage and wing design, interior components, working with our suppliers to reduce the weight of components, and refinements in the manufacturing process. We achieved significant reductions in weight without sacrificing the quality, reliability or performance of the Legend Cub.”

Just as with its inspiration, the classic Piper Cub, the Legend Cub gives meaning to flying for sport, recreation and plain fun. The American Legend Cub is two-place aircraft with flying characteristics designed around the joy of flying. A variety of options are available including choice of interior, avionics, engine, wheels, floats, lighting, propeller, and more.

According to the latest sales figures available, the Legend Cub is the second-best-selling LSA in the American market.

FMI: www.legend.aero