Fokker F.25

The Fokker F.25, introduced in 1930, was a Dutch single‑engine, high‑wing monoplane built by the aircraft manufacturer Fokker. Developed as an evolution of the earlier F.XXII twin‑engine airliner, the F.25 was designed to serve regional routes with lower operating costs. Powered by a 525‑horsepower Wright Cyclone radial engine, the aircraft featured an all‑metal, semi‑monocoque fuselage, a fully enclosed cockpit, and a passenger cabin that could accommodate twelve to fourteen travelers in comfortable seating. Its high‑mounted wing and fixed, split‑type landing gear gave the plane stable handling characteristics and simplified maintenance. The F.25 first entered service with KLM and quickly attracted interest from airlines across Europe, South America, and the Middle East, where it was employed for both passenger and mail duties. Although only a few dozen were built, the type demonstrated the viability of single‑engine transport aircraft in the early 1930s and influenced later designs such as the Fokker F.27. Its blend of reliability, economical operation, and modest capacity marked a transitional step between the biplane era and the modern twin‑engine airliners that would dominate the pre‑war period. Today, a handful of restored F.25s remain airworthy, reminding enthusiasts of early commercial aviation.