1930 Fairchild KR 21

The Fairchild KR-21, later known as the Fairchild 21, is a standout example of early American aviation craftsmanship. Originally produced by Kreider-Reisner Aircraft Company in 1928, the design was carried forward when Fairchild Aircraft acquired the company in 1929, recognizing the value in its sturdy construction and refined lines. This acquisition added both the people and the planes to Fairchild’s growing reputation as a builder of dependable and innovative aircraft.

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The KR-21 was especially popular as a training and sport aircraft, known for its nimble handling and enduring design. Our aircraft, NC235V, is a 1930 model featuring a Kinner B-5 five-cylinder radial engine producing 125 horsepower. This is an upgrade from the original 90 hp engine used in early versions of the KR-21, giving it more power without compromising its original character.

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Like several of its stablemates in The Caldwell Collection, the KR-21 is a “greaser” engine aircraft—a term referring to the manual greasing required for its rocker boxes before each flight. While this adds a bit of effort to preflight and postflight care, it offers an authentic, hands-on experience of flying in the Golden Age. Other “greasers” in the Collection include the Fleet Model 1, Monocoupe 90A, Porterfield 35-70, and Fairchild C8A.

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Visually, the KR-21 is striking. Its curved, tapering wings, with the bottom wing smaller than the top, give it an elegant, almost dainty appearance that belies its sturdy build. NC235V is painted in vibrant blue and orange, echoing the livery of The Collection’s Lincoln Page PT-W built a year earlier—though in both design and flight experience, the KR-21 represents a step forward.

This aircraft becomes the third Fairchild in The Caldwell Collection, joining the Fairchild C8A and the Fairchild PT-19A. Before it takes up permanent residency in Hangar 3 at Mustang Field, NC235V will be showcased at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, during the 100th Anniversary Celebration of Fairchild Aircraft.