Fairchild FB-3

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

The 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

The prototype aircraft (NX7385) was test flown in 1929 but did go into production.[4]

Specifications (Fairchild FB-3)

Data 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

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era

References
  1. Joshua Stoff. Long Island Aircraft Manufacturers.
  2. "Smithsonian Fairchild Records" (PDF). Retrieved 2 January 2012.
  3. Frank Woodring, Suanne Woodring. Fairchild Aircraft.
  4. E. R. Johnson. American flying boats and amphibious aircraft: an illustrated history.
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