Fairchild Aircraft

5 used Fairchild aircraft listings · $65,000–$125,000 · last refreshed 32 min ago

About Fairchild Aircraft Company

Fairchild Aircraft was a storied American manufacturer whose legacy spans from the 1920s through the late 20th century. Notable aircraft include the PT-19 and PT-26 Cornell military trainers, the C-119 Flying Boxcar, and the Fairchild Metroliner/Merlin series of commuter turboprops. In the general aviation market, the Fairchild 24 (1930s-1940s) is a prized vintage aircraft, while the SA226/SA227 Metroliner and Merlin IVC serve as utility and cargo workhorses.

Pre-owned Fairchild 24 models in flyable condition typically sell for $50,000-120,000. The Merlin and Metroliner series, powered by Honeywell TPE331 engines, are available from $200,000 to $1.5 million and remain popular in cargo, survey, and special mission roles. Buyers of vintage Fairchild aircraft should verify fabric condition and structural integrity, while Metroliner buyers should focus on engine program enrollment and landing gear overhaul status.

Fairchild Aircraft Price & Cost

How much does a Fairchild aircraft cost? Current pricing for used Fairchild aircraft (also known as Fairchild choppers or Fairchild helis) is broken down per model in the table below — covering acquisition price, hourly operating cost and overhaul cost.

Type Model Used price range Op cost / hr Annual fixed Overhaul cost Listings for sale
Multi Engine Turboprop 2
Warbirds $65,000–$65,000 1
Warbirds $79,000–$125,000 2

The cost of a Fairchild aircraft depends on model, year, hours flown, avionics and condition. See operating costs and pre-buy checklist in the About section, or open a specific model page for a detailed price guide.

Fairchild Models

Fairchild Models — Specifications

Model spec
Model Years Seats Cruise Range Useful load Listings for sale
1 2 kts (4 km/h) 1
1 2 kts (4 km/h) 2

Frequently Asked Questions — Fairchild

What Fairchild aircraft are available on the used market?

Fairchild's used market spans two distinct segments: WWII-era trainers (PT-19 Cornell, PT-26) prized by warbird collectors, and the Metroliner/Merlin turboprop twins used in cargo and regional operations. The PT-19 is one of the most historically significant trainers — more Allied airmen received primary training in Fairchilds than any other type, with 7,742 Cornells built. Metroliners (703 built) are available as affordable turboprop workhorses.

Is the Fairchild PT-19 Cornell a good warbird investment?

The PT-19 represents excellent warbird value — it is simpler and cheaper to operate than most WWII fighters, with a 175 HP Ranger inline-six engine and straightforward fabric-covered airframe. Sherman Fairchild deliberately chose a low-wing monoplane layout when biplanes were standard, making the PT-19 feel more modern than its 1939 origins suggest. Active type clubs and good parts availability keep these flying.

What happened to the Fairchild Metroliner?

The Metroliner was a 19-seat pressurized turboprop that served regional airlines from the 1970s through the 1990s. Production ended in 1998 when regional jets displaced turboprops. Today, surviving Metroliners mostly fly cargo operations. The type's lineage passed through Swearingen, Fairchild, and eventually Dornier. Used Metroliners can be acquired cheaply but require significant turboprop maintenance budgets.

Fairchild Inventory by Country

United States 15
Germany 2
Australia 1
France 1
Venezuela 1

Recently Sold Fairchild

1947 24W46 Argus $220,405
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data