NAVAIR

Updated October 2012

Mission

United States Navy -- Provide rapid response cargo and passenger transportation as well as forward deployment logistics support and range support.

Description

The RC/EC/C-26D is the military utility transport version of the Fairchild Metroliner 23 commercial light-lift aircraft. It is a multipurpose, low wing, twin engine business turboprop monoplane with an engine on each wing. With a maximum payload capacity of 5,020 pounds, the cabin can be configured to accommodate passengers, cargo or both. The aircraft incorporates a cargo door with an integral air-stair door to permit easy entry and access. C-26D’s provide rapid-response transports for high-priority resupply and personnel movement personnel to remote, un-serviced or feeder sites, while RC/EC-26D aircraft support range operations at Pacific Missile Range Facility Barking Sands, Hawaii.

Specifications

Primary Function: C-26D: Passenger and cargo airlift; RC/EC-26: Range support
Date Deployed: 1998
Propulsion: Two Allied Signal (Garrett) TPE-331-12UAR turboprop engines
Length: 59 feet 5 inches (18 meters)
Wingspan: 57 feet (17 meters)
Height: (Tail Height) 16 feet 66 inches (5 meters)
Weight: Max. gross, take-off: 16,500 pounds (7,484 kilograms)
Airspeed: Maximum 246 knots (283 miles per hour)
Ceiling: 25,000 feet (7,620 meters)
Range: 1,300 nautical miles (2,408 kilometers)
Crew: 2
Passengers: 19
Prime Contractors:  Fairchild Aircraft Company (M7 Aerospace LLC) and Allied Signal (Garrett)

Program Status

Production Phase: Operational
Inventory: C-26D: 4; RC-26D: 2; EC-26D: 1