The Fairchild C-119, nicknamed the Flying Boxcar, was designed as an improvement
over earlier Fairchild transport aircraft. It can accommodate bigger and heavier
cargo payloads in a larger, reinforced fuselage. Part of the additional room is
a result of the flight deck of the aircraft being redesigned to fit in the very
front of the fuselage.
Maximum loaded weight went from 42,000 lbs. to 64,000
lbs. while new engines deliver almost 70% more power.
The Fairchild C-119 first took to the sky in 1947 and continued in military service through 1974.
Many were in civilian service for years, and a few continue to fly today. Their
versatility is well regarded. Among other things, Fairchild C-119 aircraft have been
employed as cargo haulers, paratroop and passenger transports, air ambulances,
and air borne gunships.
The Fairchild C-119 is strong enough to operate out of
short, unimproved landing areas, and carry large, heavy payloads. The aircraft
proved extremely reliable and ground crews appreciated that their upkeep was
easy. The one word most heard to sum up the Fairchild C-119 experience is "dependable".
During the Korean War, Fairchild C-119 aircraft served with
distinction as cargo and troop transports. They continued to serve on after the
war throughout most of the world. The Fairchild C-119 even took part in early space
capsule recovery programs.
In Vietnam, Fairchild C-119 aircraft were flown by the
CIA in support of French operations. They were also used in support of India
during the Sino-Indian War. C-119 aircraft were exported by the United States
for use by nations throughout the world.
After being retired from military service, a number of Fairchild C-119 aircraft were purchased for use throughout
the United States as air tankers. They were fitted with water and retardant
tanks in their bellies.
A total of 1,183 Fairchild C-119 aircraft were produced.
Pictured above is the C-119 Fairchild C-119 from Flyboy Models. The ARF rc airplane is made from balsa and has a wingspan of 59" with a 42" length. You will need .25 two stroke engines for power.
Dan Palmer has plans for a Fairchild C-119 for sale with a 119" wingspan.
All of the pictures below are of a Fairchild C-119 built by Jim Babcock. It is from a Dare Hobbies kit designed by Pat Trittle. Wingspan is 45 1/2" and length is 35 1/2". Jim uses a pair of Speed 400 six volt motors to power the 2 lb. 5 oz. Fairchild C-119.
Precision Cut Kits has the Fairchild C-119 for sale as a kit from Dan Palmer Plans. It is a giant scale rc airplane model with a 119" wingspan and 86 1/2" length. Recommended for power are a pair of .91 two stroke engines. All up weight should be around 19 1/2 lbs. upon completion.
Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar
