The Fokker Works, the F28 Fellowship Production Line, The LTU Fellowship undergoing final checks.




Initials MSM/V/SS



Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: The World's newest Jetliner -- The Fokker F28 -- has gone into production at Schifhol-Zuid, near Amsterdam, and the first model built for a West German Charter Company is now completing Flight Trials.

Powered by tow Rolls Royce Spey Junior engines, the F28 supplies the increasing need for a short-haul jet capable of carrying up to 65 passengers. On the Fokker Production Line it joins the highly successful Twin Turbo-Prop F27 Friendship which has scored massive world-wide sales success and is in production in the United States.

The F28 -- Officially named the Fellowship -- has recently undergone a series of flight tests and is now back in the hangar for further checks. Later, it will be delivered to the LTU Charter Company of West Germany.

As further models leave the production line first deliveries will be made to Breathens SAFE Airlines of Norway who have ordered five of these planes. Similar models will be produced in the United States under the designation F228 by the Fairchild-Hillier Company and orders have already been placed for the American model.

The new jet marks the completion of a tri-nation agreement between companies in Holland, West Germany and Norther Ireland signed in 1964. Under this agreement, parts of the jet are made in all three countries for final assembly in Holland.