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Fairchild C-119F Flying Boxcar

Conceived in mid Second World War for heavy-lift and troop-carrying, the early version C-82 was introduced too late to see active service. The improved C-119 entered RCAF service in September 1952, providing the expanding air force with its first heavy-lift capability. The Flying Boxcar served very successfully with the RCAF in all areas, from desert areas to the high Arctic until retired in 1965. Fairchild had built a total of 1 112 when production stopped in 1955.

The aircraft’s unusual twin-boom and centre-pod configuration largely accounted for great cargo flexibility. Two clamshell doors opened into the rear of the fuselage to allow small vehicles to drive aboard. Larger vehicles could load and unload directly into the storage area. In flight, large loads could be air-dropped form the rear of the fuselage. Parachutists could jump from small doors on the side of the fuselage.

Museum Example

Specifications

Wing Span:
33.3 m (109 ft 3 in)
Length:
26.4 m (86 ft 6 in)
Height:
8.1 m (26 ft 6 in)
Weight, Empty:
18,497 kg (40,785 lb)
Weight, Gross:
38,549 kg (85,000 lb)
Cruising Speed:
330 km/h (205 mph)
Max Speed:
452 km/h (281 mph)
Rate of Climb:
250m (820 ft) /min
Range:
3,700 km (2,300 mi)
Power Plant:
two Wright R-3350-85, 3,500 hp, radial engines

Additional Photographs

The Canada Aviation Museum’s Image Bank contains additional photographs of this aircraft. Images are provided for non-commercial study or research purposes only and may not be reproduced or published without the prior consent of the Canada Aviation Museum.

Find out more about our Image bank here.