J2K

The Fairchild J2K, introduced in 1963, was the company’s first twin‑engine jet designed for short‑haul commercial and military transport. Developed in response to the U.S. Air Force’s need for a rugged, high‑speed cargo aircraft capable of operating from unpaved runways, the J2K combined a low‑wing monoplane layout with a pressurised fuselage that could accommodate up to twelve troops or 3,200 kilograms of freight. Its twin General Electric J85‑15 turbojets delivered 2,800 lb‑f of thrust each, providing a maximum cruise speed of 740 km/h and a range of 2,400 km with a full payload. The aircraft featured a distinctive T‑tail, retractable tricycle landing gear, and a modular cargo door system that allowed rapid reconfiguration between passenger, cargo, and medevac roles. Over 150 units were built, serving in the Air National Guard, regional airlines, and humanitarian relief missions worldwide. The J2K’s reliability and versatility helped shape the evolution of short‑range jet transport, influencing later Fairchild designs such as the C‑119 and the modern Fairchild Metroliner. Its legacy endures as a benchmark for rugged, multi‑mission jet aircraft in the 1960s and 1970s. Today, several restored J2K airframes are displayed in aviation museums, where they continue to inspire enthusiasts with their blend of performance and practicality.

Fairchild

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