Ameri-Cana Ultralights Explained

Ameri-Cana Ultralights
Type:Private company
Fate:ceased operations July 2003
Foundation:1997
Key People:Wilf Stark

Ameri-Cana Ultralights was a Canadian aircraft manufacturer that was formed to produce the Ameri-Cana Eureka for the US FAR 103 Ultralight Vehicles category and the American market.[1] [2] [3]

History

The company was formed by Wilf Stark in 1997 with the successful first flight of the Eureka. The aircraft was intended to fill what Ameri-Cana perceived as an under-served niche in the market - an inexpensive ultralight that was also quick to assemble. The Eureka was initially sold complete, including engine for US$6000 and could be assembled in two weekends.[4]

The prototype Eureka first flew in August 1997. The company then commenced manufacturing and marketing kits.

In 1999, reviewer Andre Cliche said: "The kit sells for $6000, which is amazingly low when you consider that this number even includes the engine, propeller and basic instruments. I wonder if they will stay in business for long with such a low profit margin?"

After introduction, the price was increased to US$5000 for the airframe alone, estimating that it could be completed for US$8000 total. The company ceased providing kits in July 2003 stating "The Eureka has been withdrawn from the market due to lack of resources."

Aircraft

+ align=center style="background:#BFD7FF"Summary of aircraft built by Ameri-Cana Ultralights
Model nameFirst flightNumber builtType
Ameri-Cana Eureka1997single seat ultralight aircraft

External links

Notes and References

  1. Cliche, Andre: Ultralight Aircraft Shopper's Guide 8th Edition, page B-17. Cybair Limited Publishing, 2001.
  2. Downey, Julia: 1999 Kit Aircraft Directory, Kitplanes, Volume 15, Number 12, December 1998, page 36. Primedia Publications. ISSN 0891-1851
  3. Web site: Eureka by Ameri-Cana Ultralights. 2009-09-26. Stark. Wilf. July 2003.
  4. Web site: Performance Specifications. 2009-09-26. Stark. Wilf. July 2003.