LB2009.10.117405

LB2009.10.117405

Float Plane Landing in River, Men in rowboat at pontoons. The Fairchild 71 was an American high-wing monoplane passenger and cargo aircraft built by Fairchild Aircraft and later built in Canada by Fairchild Aircraft Ltd. for both military and civilian use as a rugged bush plane. Top speed: 132 mph Wingspan: 50' Length: 36' First flight: 1926 Manufacturers: Fairchild Aircraft Ltd., Fairchild Aircraft Operational history: The United States Army Air Service acquired one Model 71 for evaluation; it was designated XC-8, and later re-designated XF-8 and used for photographic work. Eight more service-test aircraft, designated YF-1 were ordered; all nine were later re-designated C-8. The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), another major military operator, evaluated the Fairchild 71 in mid-June 1930. Thirty four RCAF FC-71s were operated from 1930 to 1946. Along with the earlier FC-2 series, the RCAF FC-71 was utilized primarily in the aerial photographic survey role as well as northern transport. In November 1934, the RCAF transferred the FC-71s to the five detachments flying in the amalgamated Maritimes No. 5 (Flying Boat) Squadron at RCAF Station Dartmouth. The squadron flew the FC-71 extensively on anti-smuggling (rum running) and illegal immigration patrols for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Most of the Model 71 production ended up in the hands of bush plane operators in Canada and the United States. Civilian operators likewise found the 71 a rugged, reliable and highly useful utility transport, well suited for northern and remote operations.