The Fairchild FB-3 (Flying Boat number 3) was an all-metal flying boat developed by the new Fairchild Metal Boat Division of the Fairchild Aircraft Corporation. The aircraft did not go into production.[1]
| FB-3 | |
|---|---|
| Role | Flying boat |
| National origin | United States |
| Manufacturer | Fairchild Metal Boat Division |
| Introduction | 1929 |
| Number built | 1 |
Design and development
editThe prototype was built at Fairchild's Farmingdale, Long Island facility.[2] The FB-3 was an amphibious high-wing strut-braced monoplane with retractable landing gear, powered by a high pylon-mounted pusher configuration radial engine. The two-step hull provided flotation with two outboard floats for stability. The wings had metal spars and ribs with fabric covering. The interior was well finished for its time.[3]
Operational history
editThe prototype aircraft (NX7385) was test flown in 1929 but did go into production.[4]
Specifications (Fairchild FB-3)
editData from Fairchild Aircraft
General characteristics
- Crew: one
- Capacity: four
- Length: 41 ft (12 m)
- Wingspan: 52 ft (16 m)
- Powerplant: 1 × Pratt & Whitney R-1340 Wasp Radial, 420 hp (310 kW)
Performance
- Maximum speed: 110 kn (130 mph, 210 km/h)
- Cruise speed: 100 kn (115 mph, 185 km/h)
- Range: 560 nmi (650 mi, 1,050 km)
See also
editAircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era
References
edit- ^ Joshua Stoff. Long Island Aircraft Manufacturers.
- ^ "Smithsonian Fairchild Records" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 15 March 2012. Retrieved 2 January 2012.
- ^ Frank Woodring, Suanne Woodring. Fairchild Aircraft.
- ^ E. R. Johnson. American flying boats and amphibious aircraft: an illustrated history.