Fairchild 71C

In 1929, the American company Fairchild opened a factory in Montreal and began producing the 71-C. With its enclosed cabin, large payload and ability to operate on wheels, skis or floats, it became the first successful all-season bush plane. It was used by both the RCAF and the RCMP.

When the Alberta Aviation Museum opened in 1991, its Fairchild 71-C (CF-ATZ) was its first major exhibit.

Specifications
  • Wingspan: 15.39 m
  • Length: 10.93 m
  • Powerplant: 1 x Pratt & Whitney R-1340-B Wasp 9-cyl radial engine (310 kW)
  • Maximum Speed: 212 km/h
  • Cruise Speed: 171 km/h
  • Range: 1,314 km
  • Crew: 1 Passengers: 8

 

Excerpt from Alberta Aviation Museum – 30 Years of Progress

CF-ATZ was the 17th of the Longueuil production line. Canadian Airways bought the aircraft in 1933, and famed bush pilot C.H. “Punch” Dickins few ATZ for the company on an epic 13,500 km exploration and survey mission throughout the Northwest Territories in 1935. In 1941, CF-ATZ appeared in the feature film Captains of the Clouds, starring James Cagney.

 

You can learn more about this aircraft by purchasing a copy of our 30th Anniversary Souvenir Book or by visiting the museum today!

Fairchild 71C exhibit. Aircraft Identification Number: CF-ATZ

Photo Gallery

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