Overview of the Fokker 70
The Fokker 70 is a Dutch-built twin-engine jet airliner, designed by Fokker Aircraft as a successor to the popular Fokker F27. With its first flight on October 4, 1990, and certification in September 1995, the Fokker 70 was intended for regional and short-haul flights.
Technical Specifications
The Fokker 70 features:
- Dimensions: Length - 27.66 m (90 ft 9 in), Wingspan - 23.78 m (78 ft 1 in), Height - 8.16 m (26 ft 9 in)
- Weight: Empty weight - 18,200 kg (40,100 lbs), Maximum takeoff weight - 28,000 kg (61,700 lbs)
- Engines: Two Rolls-Royce AE 3107B turboprop engines, each producing 4,500 horsepower and achieving a fuel efficiency of 0.32 lb/(lb/hp-hr)
- Performance: Maximum speed - 740 km/h (460 mph), Range - 2,200 km (1,367 mi), Cruising altitude - 7,620 m (25,000 ft)
- Capacity: Passengers - 70-80, Cargo - 5,500 kg (12,125 lbs), Crew - 3
Design and Features
The Fokker 70 boasts a unique design with an optimized aerodynamic shape, minimizing drag and maximizing lift. Its advanced avionics system features a glass cockpit and a Honeywell Primus EFIS (Electronic Flight Instrument System).
History and Development
The development of the Fokker 70 spanned several years:
- First flight: October 4, 1990
- Certification: September 1995
- Entry into service: June 1997 with Dutch airline KLM Cityhopper
- Challenges faced during development: Meeting European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations
- Significant upgrades or variants: None major, but minor updates were made throughout its service life
Operational Use
The Fokker 70 is primarily used for regional flights:
- Airlines that operate the Fokker 70 include KLM Cityhopper, Transavia, and Austrian Airlines
- Prioritized routes: Short-haul flights within Europe, connecting major cities and smaller hubs
- Role in aviation history: None significant, but it has been used for various charter flights and military operations
Interesting Facts
A few interesting facts about the Fokker 70:
- The Fokker 70 was designed to meet the European Union's noise reduction regulations, resulting in a quieter aircraft
- Fokker 70s have been used for various special flights, including cargo transport and medical evacuation missions
- Only a few Fokker 70s remain in commercial service today, with most having been retired or converted to freighters or business jets
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Fokker 70 unique?
The Fokker 70's unique design and advanced avionics set it apart from other aircraft in its class.
How much does the Fokker 70 cost?
The estimated cost of a used Fokker 70 ranges from $5 million to $10 million, depending on configuration and customization.
What is the range of the Fokker 70?
The Fokker 70 has a maximum range of approximately 2,200 km (1,367 mi), making it suitable for regional flights within Europe.
Which airlines operate the Fokker 70?
KLM Cityhopper, Transavia, and Austrian Airlines are among the major airlines that have operated the Fokker 70 at some point.
Is the Fokker 70 still in production?
No, the Fokker 70 is no longer in production. The last commercial deliveries were made in 2002, and most aircraft have since been retired or converted for other uses.