Then… In the 1990s, a pair of Canadian aircraft dominated the light aviation market in America’s neighbor to the north. The two planes are known to many Americans: Beaver and Chinook. Thanks to a rescue by second owner ASAP many years ago, both continued to be manufactured in Canada’s West. Long-departed Birdman Enterprises did a fine job of originating the Chinook. When ASAP took over, Canadians and ultralight enthusiasts in many places celebrated ongoing support of this aircraft. Hundreds of Chinooks were built. That is now rather distant history. Bringing Chinook not only into the present day but also into the USA is the Aeroplane Manufactory. …and Now For several years, ASAP sold the Chinook Plus 2, tagging the two-seater model with the “Plus” suffix after ASAP’s team improved and refined the aircraft following their acquisition. In more modern times, after purchasing the Chinook design rights and inventory in 2013 (five semi loads’ worth!), Aeroplane Manufactory brought the north-of-the-border design way down south to the Houston, Texas area.
Canada’s Chinook — Relocated to Texas and Upgraded; Now, “Made in the USA”
Then…
In the 1990s, a pair of Canadian aircraft dominated the light aviation market in America's neighbor to the north. The two planes are known to many Americans: Beaver and Chinook.…and Now
For several years, ASAP sold the Chinook Plus 2, tagging the two-seater model with the “Plus” suffix after ASAP's team improved and refined the aircraft following their acquisition.More About Chinook
Some have said Chinook’s wide cockpit gives it a pudgy appearance from some vantage points. Others enjoy its angular facets, a design feature rising in popularity among auto designers (think: Telsa's proposed CyberTruck).The fully enclosed but huge visibility of Chinook is seen on standard, original gear legs.
Chinook seen with its DR Gear System — an upgraded Cub-like main landing gear.
One More Thing
Chinook has been my focus so far but a word about their base of operation is in order. Welcome to Gloster Aerodrome.From its cold origin in Canada, Chinook now basks in the sunny south outside Houston, Texas.