The Fokker F28 Fellowship is a short-range jet airliner developed by Dutch aircraft manufacturer Fokker in the 1960s. Designed for regional routes, the F28 became a pioneer in short-haul jet travel, offering airlines a fast, reliable, and efficient option for connecting smaller cities and regional hubs. Its straightforward design, rugged landing gear, and performance on unprepared runways made it particularly popular in developing regions and remote areas.

🛩️ Overview:

• Role: Regional jet airliner
• Manufacturer: Fokker (Netherlands)
• First flight: May 9, 1967
• Introduced: 1969 (by Braathens SAFE of Norway)
• Production ended: 1987
• Total built: 241
• NATO reporting name: “Fellowship”

🛠️ Key Specifications (F28-4000 variant as example):

• Engines: 2 × Rolls-Royce Spey Mk 555-15 turbofan engines
• Thrust: ~10,000 lbf (44.5 kN) each
• Wingspan: 77 ft 10 in (23.7 m)
• Length: 97 ft 6 in (29.7 m)
• Cruise speed: ~530 mph (Mach 0.74 / 850 km/h)
• Range: ~1,200–2,000 mi (2,000–3,200 km) depending on version
• Service ceiling: 35,000 ft (10,700 m)
• Typical seating: 65–85 passengers
• Crew: 2 (flight crew) + 2–3 cabin crew

✨ Features:

• T-tail and rear-mounted engines for better aerodynamics and reduced cabin noise
• Straight wings for improved performance on short runways
• Uncomplicated systems and rugged construction—ideal for remote or harsh environments
• Short field capability made it suitable for small, regional airports with minimal infrastructure
• Built-in airstairs allowed self-contained operations (no need for ground boarding equipment)

🔁 Variants:

🔹 F28-1000

• Original short-fuselage version, ~65 passengers

🔹 F28-2000

• Longer fuselage, increased seating capacity (~79 seats)

🔹 F28-3000

• Like the 1000, but with simpler landing gear for improved field performance

🔹 F28-4000

• Most advanced version: modernized avionics, improved cabin, and increased range (~85 seats)

🛡️ Military & Special Use:

• Adopted by air forces and government agencies in Argentina, the Netherlands, Indonesia, Colombia, and others
• Modified variants used for VIP transport, maritime patrol, and training

🔥 Fun Facts:

• The F28 was one of the first regional jets to see widespread international service
• Its robust landing gear and high wings made it ideal for unpaved or semi-prepared airstrips
• Fokker partnered with companies in Germany, Belgium, and the UK for production, making the F28 a truly European aircraft
• Later inspired the development of the Fokker 70 and Fokker 100, which were updated and stretched versions of the F28 design

🏁 Legacy:

The Fokker F28 helped shape the modern concept of regional jet travel. While no longer in production, many served well into the 2000s, particularly in South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Its simplicity, durability, and adaptability are still admired by aviation enthusiasts and operators today.