Fokker F-32
Fokker (US) · United States · first flew 1929 · airliner
The Fokker F-32 was an ambitious American-built four-engine high-wing airliner introduced in 1929, at the time the largest commercial aircraft in US service. Its four engines were arranged in two tandem push-pull pairs under the wing, an unusual configuration that proved maintenance-intensive.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 4 × piston, wing-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 21.29 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Largest Fokker airliner of the 1920s with four engines in tandem pairs
- Twin tandem push-pull engine nacelles under a high parasol wing
- Massive 32-passenger capacity for 1929
Distinctive due to the four engines in two tandem-paired nacelles hung below the broad high wing; the large fuselage accommodating 32 passengers was exceptional for its era, and the push-pull configuration is unique among large airliners.
Specifications
- The Fokker F-32 has a length of 21.29 m (70 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 30.18 m (99 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 225 km/h (140 mph).
- Typical crew: 3+32 passengers.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Built by the American Fokker company in New Jersey, the F-32 was ordered by Western Air Express and Universal Air Lines. The tandem push-pull engine configuration was chosen to minimise asymmetric thrust problems, but it created significant maintenance difficulties. Only ten were built, and the type was withdrawn from service relatively quickly; the 1931 Fokker Trimotor crash carrying Knute Rockne accelerated regulatory scrutiny of all-wood Fokker designs, hastening their retirement.
Variants
The F-32 was the sole type; no variants were produced.
Where you'll see it
Operated by Western Air Express and Universal Air Lines in the United States from 1929 to approximately 1934; never exported.
Related aircraft
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