Aircraft overview

The Fairchild F24 is a four-seat, high-wing, tailwheel cabin aircraft built by Fairchild Aircraft in the United States. The type first flew in 1932 and remained in production into 1948, with substantial civil and military use before, during and after the Second World War. It was conceived as a comfortable personal and business aircraft rather than a trainer or utility-only design, with a wide cabin, good visibility and forgiving handling. Military versions served as the UC-61 Forwarder, but the civilian Fairchild F24 is valued today as a practical antique aircraft with genuine touring capability.

Performance & specifications

Performance varies meaningfully by engine, propeller, empty weight and restoration standard. Typical cruise speed is about 95 to 105 knots, with economical operation rather than high speed as the main appeal. Range is commonly in the region of 400 to 450 nautical miles, depending on fuel capacity and power setting. Useful load is often around 850 to 1,000 lb, enough for two to three adults and baggage in many real-world operations, though each aircraft must be checked by its current weight and balance data. Service ceiling is commonly quoted around 12,000 to 15,000 feet. Powerplants include Warner Scarab radial engines, typically 145 or 165 hp, and Ranger inverted inline engines, often 175 or 200 hp depending on variant.

Cabin & avionics

The Fairchild F24 cabin seats four in a two-row layout, with unusually generous width for a 1930s light aircraft. Large side windows, a car-like door arrangement on many examples and a stable high-wing platform make it pleasant for relaxed touring. Avionics are not standardized. Most surviving aircraft have been updated from original instrumentation and may carry a basic VFR suite with comm radio, transponder, ADS-B equipment and possibly a portable or panel-mounted GPS. Integrated glass cockpits such as Garmin G1000 or Garmin Perspective are not typical for the type.

Buying & value

Buyers should focus on airframe condition, fabric age, wood structure inspection history, corrosion control, landing gear condition and engine support. Documentation quality is especially important, including logs, major repairs, STCs and evidence of proper rigging. The main ownership distinction is often engine choice: Warner radial aircraft offer period character, while Ranger-powered examples may appeal to buyers prioritizing parts familiarity and operating simplicity. Common upgrades include modern radios, ADS-B, improved brakes, shoulder harnesses and tasteful interior refurbishment. In the current PlaneFox used-market sample, Fairchild F24 asking prices average about EUR 67,000, with listings ranging from approximately EUR 47,000 to EUR 105,000, placing the model in the accessible vintage touring segment rather than the high-end warbird category.