Fairchild FC-2L RAZORBACK
A Fairchild Razorback FC-2L floatplane(CF Photo)
The Fairchild FC-2 first flew in 1926. It was a four-seat cabin monoplane designed for light transport. It featured a 220 hp Wright J-5 Whirlwind engine along with composite construction including a welded steel fuselage and tail along with a strut-braced wooden wing and all-over fabric covering. Early production aircraft had only three longerons in the rear fuselage giving the aircraft a "Razorback" appearance and hence its name. Subsequent versions eliminated this distinctive feature with four longeron construction. The aircraft was designed with aerial photography in mind and therefore featured an enclosed and heated cabin with extra windows to allow for an improved downward view. The RCAF initially procured the type for this role. The RCAF then decided to standardize engine power plants across a variety of its fleets. Consequently, the design was re-engineered with a 215 hp Armstrong Siddeley Lynx engine. Re-designated as the FC-2L, this aircraft was then demonstrated to and accepted by the RCAF. A further version for the RCAF, known as the FC-2V, was also developed. The design was further evolved into the 51 and 71 models.
| Manufacturer: | Ottawa Car Company & Canadian Vickers under license from Fairchild |
| Crew/Passengers: | one pilot and up to 3 passengers. |
| Power Plant: | one 215 hp Armstrong Siddeley Lynx G radial piston engine |
| Performance: | Max Speed: 105.5 mph ( 170 km/h) Cruising Speed: 85 mph ( 137 km/h) Service Ceiling: 13,100 ft (3,993 m) |
| Weights: | Empty: 2,749 lb ( 1,248 kg) Gross: 4,180 lb ( 1,898 kg) |
| Dimensions: | Span: 44 ft 0 in (13.4 m) Length: 30 ft 11 in (9.43 m) Height: 9 ft 1 in ( 2.77 m) Wing Area: 272.4 sq ft (25.3 sq m) |
| Armament: | None |
| Cost: | Unknown |
