Fairchild 24W

Specifications

Year: 1946
Make: Fairchild
Model: 24W (Originally equipped with 165hp Warner Super Scarab)
Wingspan: 36 ft 4 in
Length Overall: 23′ 10″
Number of Passengers: 4 pax
Engine Manufacturer: Continental
Horsepower: 220hp
Propeller: Sensenich
Cruising Speed: 110mph
Number Manufactured: 2,232
Restored By:

Words of Recognition

I had no idea I wanted a Fairchild 24 until I saw one advertised on Barnstormers. I was looking for an enclosed cabin tail dragger to fly when it got cold in Oklahoma City and spotted this among the Waco cabins, Aeroncas, Cessna spam cans and others. It looked cool though a bit odd. As I did my research I found that its Continental W670 radial tank engine (widely used during the war to power Sherman tanks) wasn’t original equipment. Neither was the UC 78 cowl sources from….READ MORE

Awards

There are no awards for this airplane. In fact, its not quite up to “show” quality and its not finished yet as the rear upholstery still needs to overwhelm inertia and get finished. If I entered it in a competition it would most likely win “Best Chaise Lounge with Radial Engine” though.

Why this Fairchild?

The reasons I bought it were its recent, excellent, restoration and its Continental W670 engine. Yes, I know its not original. And yes, I’m particular about originality. But I bought it to fly and not obsess over so the Continental with its parts availability and reliability were appealing
What I love about this plane is it is so easy, and so comfortable to fly. The seller checked me out for an hour or so and I felt perfectly comfortable flying it 700 nautical miles home.