Ameri-Cana Ultralights
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]
| Type | Private company |
|---|---|
| Industry | Aerospace |
| Fate | ceased operations July 2003 |
| Founded | 1997 |
| Headquarters | Irricana, Alberta |
Key people | Wilf Stark |
| Products | kit aircraft |
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.[1][3][4]
The prototype Eureka first flew in August 1997. The company then commenced manufacturing and marketing kits.[1]
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?"[1]
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 The company ceased providing kits in July 2003 stating "The Eureka has been withdrawn from the market due to lack of resources."[3]
Aircraft
| Model name | First flight | Number built | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ameri-Cana Eureka | 1997 | single seat ultralight aircraft | |
References
- Cliche, Andre: Ultralight Aircraft Shopper's Guide 8th Edition, page B-17. Cybair Limited Publishing, 2001. ISBN 0-9680628-1-4
- Downey, Julia: 1999 Kit Aircraft Directory, Kitplanes, Volume 15, Number 12, December 1998, page 36. Primedia Publications. ISSN 0891-1851
- Stark, Wilf (July 2003). "Eureka by Ameri-Cana Ultralights". Retrieved 2009-09-26.
- Stark, Wilf (July 2003). "Performance Specifications". Retrieved 2009-09-26.