[1] Consumer demand for more comfort, longer range and better instrumentation resulted in development of the Aeronca 50 Chief in 1938.

Throughout the production life of the Aeronca Chief family the aircraft was improved incrementally, from a rather basic specification to a reasonably comfortable tourer with car-style interior.

The fixed tail-wheel undercarriage, sprung with oleo struts and faired triangular side members hinged at the fuselage.

The engine is fitted conventionally in the nose and was either semi-cowled or fully cowled using sheet aluminium alloy, depending on model.

Some civilian models had side-by-side seating in a well-glazed cabin under the wing centre-section, with entry through car style doors either side.