It was essentially a militarized version of the Aeronca Champion.

From 1955 large numbers were transferred to the Civil Air Patrol.

[1] Derived from the Aeronca Champion (Aeronca Model 7 series), the L-16 primarily replaced the similar Piper L-4 (a modified Piper Cub) in U.S. military service.

The L-16 afforded generally better performance, stability, visibility and comfort, while its safety characteristics were a mix of better and worse than the L-4.

[2][3][4] United States Japan Data from United States Military Aircraft Since 1909[5]General characteristics Performance