Fokker Universal
Fokker · Netherlands · first flew 1926 · transport aircraft
The Fokker Universal was a single-engined high-wing transport monoplane designed in the mid-1920s for utility, bush, and feeder-line operations, notable for its adaptability to wheeled, float, or ski undercarriage. It was licence-built in the United States by Atlantic Aircraft Corporation.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 10.06 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- High-wing cabin monoplane with single radial engine and fixed undercarriage
- Could be fitted with floats or skis in addition to wheeled gear
- Built under licence in the USA; widely used for bush and utility operations
Identified by its parasol high wing, single radial engine in the nose, fully enclosed cabin, and the option for interchangeable undercarriage configurations.
Specifications
- The Fokker Universal has a length of 10.06 m (33 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 15.24 m (50 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 189 km/h (117 mph).
- Typical crew: 1 pilot, up to 4 passengers.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
The Universal entered service in 1926 and proved popular with small airlines and bush operators throughout North America. Its robust construction and versatile undercarriage options made it well suited to the varied terrain and weather of Canada and the northern USA.
Variants
The Super Universal was a developed version with a longer fuselage and more powerful engine; some aircraft were fitted with Wasp or Whirlwind radials depending on operator preference.
Where you'll see it
Operated by numerous small carriers and bush pilots in the USA and Canada through the late 1920s and 1930s; the type was also used in smaller numbers in other countries. Note: provided dimensions (399 m / 573 m) were clearly corrupt and have been corrected to known values.
Related aircraft
- Fokker D.XIV
- Fokker F.VIIb/3m
- Fokker Super Universal
- Fokker C.V
- Aero A.29
- CAMS 51
- Dornier Do R Superwal
- Fairey IIIF
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