Fokker Friendship F27.
SPECS
ASSEMBLY
INTERIOR
HISTORY
Air New Zealand Fokker F27 Friendship at Mount Cook.
The Fokker F27 Friendship: A Pioneering Aircraft of its Era.
Introduction:
The Fokker F27 Friendship stands as a testament to the remarkable innovation and success achieved by the Dutch aircraft manufacturer Fokker. Produced during a significant period in aviation history, the F27 Friendship emerged as a groundbreaking turboprop airliner. With its distinctive configuration and exceptional performance, this aircraft became an icon of its time.
Produced by Fokker from 1955 to 1987, the F27 Friendship was developed as a successor to the widely popular Douglas DC-3. Fokker aimed to create an aircraft surpassing its piston-engine predecessors' capabilities, offering enhanced passenger comfort, extended flight range, and reliable engines.
The Fokker F27 Friendship was manufactured in the Netherlands and the United States under a licensing agreement with Fairchild. Fokker produced 583 Friendships, while Fairchild contributed an additional 206 units. This collaboration ensured the aircraft's availability across continents, cementing its status as a global aviation success.
Fokker Friendship F27 TAM Reg PT-LAJ.
The Fokker F27 Friendship boasted a distinctive configuration, characterized by its high-wing design and pressurized cabin. It featured a spacious interior, accommodating a significant number of passengers while maintaining a comfortable travel experience. The cabin was carefully designed to prioritize passenger comfort, making the F27 Friendship a preferred choice for short to medium-distance flights.
With its introduction, the Fokker F27 Friendship quickly gained popularity among airlines worldwide. Its reliable and efficient Rolls-Royce Dart turboprop engines offered superior performance, reducing vibration and noise levels compared to previous piston-engine aircraft. This breakthrough in engine technology contributed to a smoother and more comfortable flight experience for passengers.
The Fokker F27 Friendship was a product of its time, showcasing remarkable engineering and construction methods. Fokker employed advanced techniques, including a glued sandwich construction for fuselage and wing parts. This innovative approach resulted in a lighter yet durable structure, reflecting Fokker's commitment to pushing the boundaries of aircraft design.
Fokker F27 friendship United States Parachute Team. Golden Knights
The Fokker F27 Friendship's enduring legacy lies in its ability to revolutionize the aviation industry during its production period. Its unique combination of reliability, passenger comfort, and innovative design propelled it to become one of the most successful European airliners of its era.
In the subsequent sections, we will delve into the fascinating history, assembly, specifications, and interior of the Fokker F27 Friendship, exploring its remarkable features and contributions to the world of aviation.
Stay tuned for the next section, where we'll take a closer look at the constuction of the Fokker F27 Friendship.
Assembly - A Marvel of Engineering and Construction
The assembly process of the Fokker F27 Friendship was a testament to precision engineering and innovative construction techniques. From the initial stages of manufacturing to the final assembly, every step was meticulously carried out to ensure the highest standards of quality and performance.
The production of the Fokker F27 Friendship began with the fabrication of various fuselage and wing parts using a glued sandwich construction method. This technique involved bonding multiple layers of materials together, resulting in a lightweight yet robust structure. The use of glued sandwich construction was a daring and revolutionary approach for the time, showcasing Fokker's commitment to pushing the boundaries of aircraft manufacturing.
Once the individual components were prepared, the assembly process began in earnest. Skilled technicians and engineers meticulously fitted the fuselage sections, wings, and tail surfaces together to create the airframe of the F27 Friendship. The assembly process required careful alignment, ensuring that each component was precisely positioned and securely attached.
ASSEMBLY
Fokker F27 Friendship NLM PH-KFC.
The interior configuration of the F27 Friendship varied based on the specific version and the requirements of individual operators. Fokker offered a range of options, including seating capacities for different passenger loads, specialized versions for cargo operations, and even military adaptations for troop transport. Each aircraft was tailored to meet the diverse needs of its operators, ensuring maximum flexibility and usability.
Throughout the assembly process, rigorous quality control measures were implemented to guarantee the utmost safety and reliability of each Fokker F27 Friendship. Comprehensive inspections, functional tests, and performance evaluations were conducted to ensure that every aircraft adhered to the strict standards set by Fokker.
The assembly of the Fokker F27 Friendship was a meticulous and intricate process, bringing together advanced engineering, innovative construction techniques, and a commitment to excellence. It was the culmination of the collective efforts of skilled craftsmen, engineers, and technicians who dedicated themselves to creating an aircraft that would revolutionize air travel.
Fokker F27 Friendship ASSL Reg AP-BHZ.
One of the notable features of the F27 Friendship was its high-wing configuration. This design choice offered several advantages, including increased lift efficiency, improved ground loading capabilities, and unobstructed views for passengers. The high-wing placement allowed for a lower floor level, making the loading and unloading of cargo and passengers more convenient. Additionally, it provided passengers with expansive windows, granting breathtaking vistas during flight.
With the airframe taking shape, the next critical step was the installation of the Rolls-Royce Dart turboprop engines. These reliable powerplants played a crucial role in the aircraft's performance, delivering enhanced efficiency and reduced vibration and noise levels. Technicians carefully integrated the engines into the airframe, ensuring optimal alignment and secure attachment.
As the assembly progressed, attention turned to the interior of the Fokker F27 Friendship. The cabin layout was designed to prioritize passenger comfort, offering a spacious and inviting environment. The pressurized cabin provided a pleasant flying experience, minimizing the discomfort often associated with changes in altitude. Passengers could enjoy a smooth journey and arrive at their destinations feeling refreshed.
The Fokker F27 was the mainstay of the Dutch Air Force for around 36 years. The C-1, C-2 and C-3 were F27-100 Friendships.
SPECIFICATIONS
A Closer Look at the Fokker F27 Friendship's Variants.
The Fokker F27 Friendship was not a one-size-fits-all aircraft. Fokker developed a range of variants to cater to the specific needs and preferences of different operators. Each variant of the F27 Friendship came with its own set of specifications, offering unique features and capabilities. Let's explore some of the notable variants and their specifications:
F27-100:
Seating Capacity: Up to 44 passengers.
Engine: Rolls-Royce Dart turboprop engines
Notable Features: Original type, offered a comfortable cabin for short to medium-distance flights
F27-200:
Seating Capacity: Varies depending on configuration
Engine: Rolls-Royce Dart Mk 532 turboprop engines
Notable Features: More powerful engines for improved performance and versatility.
Ansett Fokker F27 Friendship Reg VH-FNO.
F27-300 Combiplane:
Seating Capacity: Combination of passengers and cargo
Engine: Rolls-Royce Dart turboprop engines
Notable Features: Suitable for both passenger and cargo operations, offering flexibility to operators
F27-300M Troopship:
Seating Capacity: Military transport variant
Engine: Rolls-Royce Dart turboprop engines
Notable Features: Specially designed for troop transport by the Royal Netherlands Air Force
F27-400:
Seating Capacity: Varies depending on configuration
Engine: Rolls-Royce Dart 7 Mk 528/532 turboprop engines
Notable Features: "Combi" variant with a cargo door, enabling the transportation of both passengers and cargo.
F27-400M:
Seating Capacity: Military version for troop transport.
Engine: Rolls-Royce Dart turboprop engines.
Notable Features: Adapted for military use, serving the US Army as the C-31A Troopship.
F27-500:
Seating Capacity: Up to 52 passengers
Engine: Rolls-Royce Dart Mk 528 turboprop engines
Notable Features: Extended version with a longer fuselage, offering increased seating capacity
F27-500F:
Seating Capacity: Varies depending on configuration
Engine: Rolls-Royce Dart Mk 528 turboprop engines
Notable Features: Variant designed for cargo operations, featuring a smaller front and rear cargo door
F27-600:
Seating Capacity: Varies depending on configuration
Engine: Rolls-Royce Dart turboprop engines
Notable Features: Combi version based on the F27-200, allowing for the transportation of passengers and cargo
F27-700:
Seating Capacity: Varies depending on configuration
Engine: Rolls-Royce Dart turboprop engines
Notable Features: Cargo version based on the F27-100, featuring a large cargo door for efficient cargo operations
F27 200-MAR:
Seating Capacity: Military variant
Engine: Rolls-Royce Dart turboprop engines
Notable Features: Unarmed maritime reconnaissance version for specialized military operations
F27 Maritime Enforcer:
Seating Capacity: Varies depending on configuration
Engine: Rolls-Royce Dart turboprop engines
Notable Features: Armed maritime reconnaissance variant for military operations
These variants represent a selection of the diverse range of Fokker F27 Friendship models produced throughout its 32-year production span. Each variant was tailored to meet specific requirements, whether it be passenger transport, cargo operations, military use, or specialized missions.
The Fokker F27 Friendship's versatility and adaptability contributed to its widespread success, enabling it to serve a multitude of operators across the globe. The aircraft's specifications, coupled with its reliable performance, made it a preferred choice for regional and commuter flights, as well as military operations.
Fokker F27-300M C-10.
Fokker F27 Friendship Specs Table
| Type | Fokker F27 Friendship |
|---|---|
| First Flight | 24 November 1955 |
| Crew | 2/3 |
| Passengers | 44-52 |
| Cabin Width(Internal) | 2.1 metres (6 feet 11 inches) |
| Cabin Height(Internal) | 2.0 metres (6 feet 7 inches) |
| Aircraft Length | 25.06 metres (82 feet 3 inches) F27-500 26.56 metres (87 feet 02 inches) |
| Tail Height | 8.5 metres (27 feet 11 inches) F27-500 8.7 metres (28 feet 07 inches) |
| Main Wing Span | 29.0 metres (95 feet 2 inches) |
| Main Wing Area | 70.0 metres2 (750 feet2) |
| Operating Empty Weight | 20,400 kg (26786 lb) F27-500 11,200 kg (24,692 lb) |
| MTOW | 20,400 kg (44,974 lb) F27-500 19,770 kg (43585 lb) |
| Engines x 2 | Rolls-Royce Dart Mk.532, 2 x 2050 hp F27-500 Rolls-Royce Dart Mk.532-7, 2 x 2250 hp |
| Speed (Max) | Mach 0.38, 259kn, 298mph, 480kph |
| Speed (Max) | Mach 0.42, 281kn, 323mph, 520kph |
| Service Ceiling | 29,500 feet (8.990 metres) |
| Range Fully Laden | 1,800km, 972nm, 1,118mi F27-500 1,900km, 1,026nm, 1,181mi |
Click on the above image to view the Fokker F27 Friendship EASA Type Certificate Data Sheet.
History.
A Pioneering Era for Aviation and the Birth of the Fokker F27 Friendship.
In the wake of World War II, aviation entered a transformative phase, marked by the availability of surplus Douglas DC-3 aircraft in the commercial market. These reliable workhorses offered post-war airlines, including the Dutch flag carrier KLM, an opportunity to resume scheduled services. However, Dutch aircraft manufacturer Fokker recognized the need for a successor to the DC-3, one that would offer improved passenger comfort, extended range, and more efficient engines. Thus, the ambitious journey towards creating the Fokker F27 Friendship began.
Headed by the esteemed Chief Constructor Kees van Meerten, Fokker set out to design an aircraft that would surpass its piston-engine predecessors. The Fokker F27 Friendship was conceived as a response to the DC-3, combining modern advancements in technology with forward-thinking design principles. Its maiden flight took place on November 24, 1955, lasting a mere 34 minutes but marking the start of a remarkable legacy.
Fokker F27 Friendship Air UK.
Recognizing the aircraft's potential, Fokker embarked on a production journey that would see 787 Friendships built in total. Fokker itself manufactured 581 units, while an additional 206 were produced under license by American manufacturer Fairchild. Notably, Fairchild also developed its own extended versions of the aircraft, known as the Fairchild FH-227.
The Fokker F27 Friendship spread its wings across continents, serving numerous operators worldwide. Airlines on almost every continent, except Russia, embraced the aircraft for its reliability and versatility. Over its remarkable 32-year production span, the F.27 underwent numerous modifications and customizations to cater to the diverse needs of its customers.
Fokker developed a range of special versions to suit specific requirements. These included the F27-100, the original type with 44 seats, and the F27-200, featuring the more powerful Rolls-Royce Dart 7 Mk 528 engines. For military purposes, Fokker produced the F27-300M "Troopship" for the Royal Netherlands Air Force and the F27-400M "Troopship" for the US Army. Other variants included combi versions, cargo variants with large cargo doors, extended versions such as the F27-500, and even specialized models like the F27 Maritime used for maritime patrol.
The Fokker F-27 Friendship found its way into the fleets of various operators worldwide, including several Dutch airlines and the Royal Netherlands Air Force. Notably, the F-27 had a remarkable service life, with some aircraft flying under the colors of six to ten different operators. The versatility and adaptability of the F-27 allowed for a wide range of modifications, including VIP configurations, military roles such as parachutist transport, cargo operations, and even firefighting as water bombers. One F.27 was even transformed into a flying eye clinic, bringing essential eye operations to remote locations.
Fokker F27 Friendship Aer Lingus 1966 Reg EI-AKD. Aer Lingus was the launch customer for the F27.
The Fokker F27 Friendship, with its high-wing configuration and pressurized cabin, represented a daring and revolutionary construction method for its time. It featured a large number of fuselage and wing parts manufactured using a glued sandwich construction technique. This approach not only reduced weight but also improved overall structural integrity, contributing to the aircraft's exceptional performance.
Powered by two reliable Rolls-Royce Dart-6 gas turbine engines and equipped with four-bladed propellers, the F.27 Friendship provided a significant leap forward in engine technology. Its engines offered reduced vibration and noise levels, elevating passenger comfort and delivering a smoother flying experience. Over time, the Dart-6 engines were replaced by the more powerful Dart-7 variant, enhancing the aircraft's capabilities.
The initial prototype of the Fokker F27 Friendship featured a pressurized cabin accommodating 28 passengers. However, Fokker soon expanded the fuselage by 1 meter, increasing the capacity to 32 passengers. The aircraft's focus was on short to medium-distance flights, making it an ideal choice for regional and commuter operations.
Fokker F27-500F Friendship Sonangol. SonAir Angola. Registration D2-ESN.
As of 2020, several Fokker F-27 Friendships remain operational in countries like Iran, Indonesia, Argentina, and the Spanish Navy. Many others have found their way into aviation museums worldwide, preserving the legacy of this iconic aircraft. Notably, two F-27s, including the third prototype and the first production aircraft, are housed at the Aviodrome in Lelystad, Netherlands.
The Fokker F-27 Friendship played a significant role in shaping the aviation landscape, delivering reliable and comfortable air travel to countless passengers. With its bold design, innovative construction methods, and continuous evolution, the F-27 Friendship stands as a testament to Fokker's dedication to pushing the boundaries of aviation technology and craftsmanship.
Fokker F27-100 New Zealand’s NAC(National Airways Corporation) at Wellington Reg. ZK-BXF.
Cabin Interior.
Comfort and Elegance on Board the Fokker F27 Friendship.
Step aboard the Fokker F27 Friendship, and you would find yourself immersed in an environment designed to prioritize passenger comfort and convenience. The interior of the F27 was meticulously crafted to provide an inviting and pleasant atmosphere for all those on board. Let's explore the features and amenities that made the F27's interior truly special.
The cabin of the Fokker F27 Friendship was designed to accommodate the varying needs of different operators and passengers. The seating configuration and layout could be customized to suit specific requirements, ensuring maximum flexibility and comfort. Depending on the variant and operator preferences, the F27 could comfortably accommodate a range of passenger capacities, from intimate settings to larger groups.
Passengers on the Fokker F27 Friendship enjoyed spacious seating arrangements, allowing for ample legroom and ease of movement. The well-designed seats provided a comfortable experience, whether it was a short hop or a longer journey. The plush upholstery and ergonomic design ensured that passengers could relax and enjoy their flight with ease.
Fokker F27 Friendship interior.
Fokker F27 Cabin, credit to Fokker Heritage Trust.
The cabin was thoughtfully pressurized, allowing for a smooth and comfortable experience as the aircraft ascended to higher altitudes. This pressurization system minimized the effects of altitude changes, such as ear popping, and provided a more enjoyable flying experience for passengers.
Large windows adorned the cabin, allowing passengers to gaze out at the ever-changing landscapes below. The high-wing configuration of the F27 Friendship provided unobstructed views, offering a captivating perspective of the world from above. Passengers could marvel at scenic vistas, city skylines, and natural wonders, enhancing the overall journey.
The interior of the Fokker F27 Friendship was not only focused on passenger comfort but also on functionality. The cabin layout could be adapted to meet the specific requirements of operators. Some aircraft were configured for passenger-only service, providing a cozy and intimate setting for travelers. Others were designed as combi variants, with a combination of passenger seating and dedicated cargo space. This versatility allowed operators to cater to both passenger and cargo needs, offering increased operational efficiency.
Over the years, the F27's interior received continuous updates and improvements to enhance the passenger experience. Fokker dedicated efforts to modernize the cabin layout and improve amenities, taking into account evolving passenger expectations and preferences. These updates included advancements in seating materials, lighting systems, entertainment options, and overall cabin ambiance.
