Fairchild F-45 Survivors

[Ryan Keough]

Everyone;

I have been trying to work out what happened to the original production line of the Fairchild F-45. I posted a blog entry today regarding my search at: http://www.ryankeough.com/2011/04/fairchild-aircraft-model-45-f45-f45a-survivors/ and have also uploaded my list as it currently stands at: http://www.ryankeough.com/files/fairchild-45.html

If anyone has any additions or additional information on any of the airframes, I would appreciate any help you can provide.

Thanks,
Ryan

[C170BDan]

Another great type to research. I have seen a few pictures... some here...

http://www.russellw.com/photoalbum/phot ... qModel=c45

Look forward to hearing your research results.

[Ryan Keough]

Hi Dan,

That is George Riffles aircraft... one of the more active F-45's out there. There is another active one in Southern CA owned by Denise Dudley. I should have thought to look at Russell's site... I am extremely envious of his Ryan SCW, my dream plane!

Thanks,
Ryan

[C170BDan]

Some years ago I remember seeing an article about two flying 45s that made it to Oshkosh. As rare as they are that would have been quite the sight! Can't say I ever have seen one in person. Just pictures.

Oh yes... Russell has a sharp Ryan SC and some other cool toys!

[wacoykc]

I know George Riffle pretty well as he owns a 1938 Waco AGC-8 as well and I got the chance to fly Russ' Ryan SCW when we went out to Seattle to visit family. That airplane is on my "gotta own" list.

[Champ driver]

Here's couple of pictures of what should be N16876 SN 4012.
I took these a few years ago at the Golden Wings Museum at Anoka County airport just north of the Twin Cities.
I don't think there's been any more restoration than what you see here.
I hope this helps you out Ryan.
Jim

[zorro7]

Fairchild F-45 Folks:

Included is a picture of Fairchild F-45 N16876 in better times ( c. 1940s) while in Service with Standard Fruit Co in Honduras.Via C/w.com

[cwmc]

In the 70's there was one at Torrance Airport, CA.
Chris...

[BTBFlyboy]

Though a bit off topic perhaps I can offer information as to why the restoration of F-45 N16876 sn#4012 has not progressed. No tail surfaces came with the aircraft and attempts to obtain the necessary drawings lead to two lawsuits against the FAA spanning 12+ years.
You can read the whole sordid tale here; http://www.antiqueairfield.com/attachme ... 01969cbf64 as written by the attorney in both cases Mike Pangia. It's a bit lengthy but an interesting read. It shows the extant to which the Antique Airplane Association and members like Greg Herrick are willing to go to help, as our motto states, "Keep the Antiques Flying".
The legal wrangling is finally over and the process of obtaining a complete set of F-45 drawings from the FAA is under way; http://www.antiqueairfield.com/articles ... a-requests. These drawings are slated to be placed in the Air Power Museum's "Library of Flight" at Antique Airfield near Blakesburg, IA where future owners etc. may have access to them.

Brent Taylor

[AvroAvian]

G'Day Brent,

I have just read the two links you provided. What an astounding story! I am glad that common sense appears to have finally prevailed and I hope the cost hasn't been too savage.
Now veering way off topic!
It has piqued my interest to learn that the FAA still holds drawings in its archives for Type Certificates. I wonder if there are any drawings still existing for the Whittlesey Avian Mk IV-M, TC # 2-176 and for the American Cirrus Engines. How does one (especially someone from Australia!) go about applying for access to these drawings?

Best regards,

Paul

[Mike]

I wonder if the museum at South County Airport, who were building up an Avian to fly, have drawings. I can make enquiries, if you haven't already been in contact with them Paul.

[AvroAvian]

G'Day Mike,

I have been in contact with Frank Nichols at the Wings of History Air Museum and unfortunately their Avian project, along with all the paperwork, is in storage until funds and manpower become available. Frank did indicate that the drawings they have probably came from Australia anyway!
Anyhoo, I still need to investigate any/all leads I come across. Any help would be most appreciated.

Best regards,

Paul