Fairchild XC-31

In 1934, the “Fairchild” company built the prototype of the Fairchild XC-31 multi-purpose transport aircraft (project XC-941). The “Kreider-Reisner” firm, previously acquired by Fairchild, secured the contract for this aircraft from the U.S. Army Air Corps.

Design Features

The XC-31 was a braced high-wing monoplane, powered by a Wright R-1820 Cyclone radial engine. It featured a light alloy construction with fabric covering and a conventional tail unit.

Its landing gear included a tail-wheel and retractable main struts. The pilot was seated in an enclosed cockpit positioned in front of the wing, and behind the cockpit, there was a voluminous cargo compartment with wide doors.

Trial Outcomes

Despite its innovative features, following operational trials, the Fairchild XC-31 did not receive any further orders from the U.S. Army Air Corps.

Technical Specifications

Modification	XC-31
Wingspan, m	22.86
Aircraft length, m	16.76
Aircraft height, m	4.83
Wing area, m2	74.51
Empty weight	3822
Maximum takeoff weight	6713
Engine type	1 Piston engine Wright R-1820-25 Cyclone
Power, hp	1 x 750
Maximum speed, km/h	261
Cruising speed, km/h	230
Practical range, km	1239
Service ceiling, m	4570
Crew	1
Payload	up to 15 passengers or 1600 kg of cargo

Image and diagram gallery of the Fairchild XC-31

C-31	C-31
C-31	C-31
C-31	C-31
C-31	C-31
C-31	C-31
C-31	C-31
C-31