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Fairchild Metro 23 Airliner Specifications and Charter Rates

The Fairchild Metro 23 is a twin-turboprop regional airliner known for its efficient point-to-point service, carrying up to 19 passengers with a cruise speed approaching 270 knots and a maximum range of nearly 1,300 nautical miles. Introduced in the early 1990s as the pinnacle of the Metro series, it quickly became a staple for regional airlines and private group charters seeking reliable, cost-effective performance.


For groups needing flexible regional connectivity—whether for business roadshows, event shuttles, or leisure excursions—the Metro 23 is a proven workhorse. This profile covers its core specifications, cabin features, charter suitability, and what travelers need to know before boarding this versatile commuter.

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Fairchild Metro 23 Overview

The Metro 23 is positioned in the airliner category, prized for its ability to serve regional markets and small-group charters with remarkable efficiency. With seating for up to 19 passengers in a single-aisle configuration, it provides ample space for corporate teams or leisure groups on flights of up to three hours. Powered by two Garrett TPE331-12UAR-701G turboprop engines, the Metro 23 ascends to a service ceiling of 25,000 feet, cruising comfortably above weather and congested airspace.


Its appeal lies in its operational versatility—low fuel burn, short runway performance, and the flexibility to operate from secondary airports make it a smart choice for bespoke itineraries. Operators appreciate its proven reliability, while passengers benefit from a cabin optimized for practicality and comfort on regional flights.


The Metro 23 combines robust construction with dependable systems, resulting in low direct operating costs and the ability to serve markets beyond the reach of larger jets. For group charters, it’s a blend of value, utility, and confidence in every trip.

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Fairchild Metro 23 Specifications

The figures below summarize the performance and dimensions that matter most when you are matching an aircraft to a trip. They reflect typical configurations; exact numbers vary with weight, weather, and how a given aircraft is equipped.

Aircraft class:

Airliner

Passenger capacity:

Up to 19 (typical), 19 maximum

Crew:

2 pilots

Range:

Approximately 2408 nautical miles (around 2770 statute miles)

High-speed cruise:

270 knots (about 311 mph)

Long-range cruise:

Approximately 250 knots

Service ceiling:

25000 fee

Engines:

Two Garrett TPE331-12UAR-701G turboprops

Thrust:

Roughly 1100 lbf per engine

Takeoff distance:

About 3000 feet

Landing distance:

About 2800 feet

Average fuel burn:

Around 90 gallons per hour

Baggage capacity:

Approximately 3 cubic feet

First delivered:

Early 1990s

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The figures below summarize the performance and dimensions that matter most when you are matching an aircraft to a trip. They reflect typical configurations; exact numbers vary with weight, weather, and how a given aircraft is equipped.

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Fairchild Metro 23 Range and Performance

With a maximum range just over 1,300 nautical miles, the Fairchild Metro 23 covers major regional routes with ease, such as Dallas to Chicago, Los Angeles to Denver, or London to Rome in a single segment. Its economical fuel consumption and short-field performance allow access to metropolitan airports and remote destinations alike. | While not built for transcontinental distances, the Metro 23 excels in connecting high-demand city pairs and underserved markets. Its 270-knot cruise ensures quick regional hops, and the ability to operate from fields as short as 3,000 feet gives it a reach far beyond most commuter jets. | The twin Garrett turboprops provide reliable climb and cruise capability, keeping schedules on track and passengers comfortable. With its balanced speed, range, and runway flexibility, the Metro 23 is a leader for regional group travel.

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Fairchild Metro 23 Cabin Experience and Interior

Aboard the Metro 23, passengers enjoy a practical, spacious single-aisle cabin tailored for group movement. The standard arrangement seats 19 in comfortable, high-backed chairs with overhead storage and generous legroom for a regional airliner. | The cabin is bright and functional, with large windows providing natural light and a sense of openness. Most configurations include a forward galley and an aft lavatory, ensuring convenience on longer journeys. | Though not designed for luxury, the Metro 23’s well-appointed interior features noise insulation for a peaceful ride, in-flight power options, and flexible seating layouts. Its three-cubic-foot baggage compartment handles compact luggage and personal items. For business teams or leisure groups, the environment is ideal for productivity or relaxation on every flight.

Fairchild Metro 23 Charter Cost and Hourly Rates

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Chartering a Fairchild Metro 23 typically runs in the range of $2800 to $3500 per flight hour, though the figure you are quoted depends on several factors. Rates move with the route, the season, repositioning (or ferry) time, airport fees, crew costs, and how a specific aircraft is equipped. Peak travel periods and one-way trips that leave an aircraft far from its base tend to sit at the higher end, while round trips and flights that align with an operator's existing schedule can come in lower.

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It also helps to understand how charter pricing is structured. Most quotes are built around occupied flight hours plus those repositioning costs, landing and handling fees, taxes, and crew expenses. Because Jettly is a charter marketplace rather than an aircraft operator, you can compare live quotes from multiple FAA Part 135 and book the option that fits your route and budget.

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Empty-leg flights, the discounted repositioning trips that operators are keen to fill, can also bring the cost of a Fairchild Metro 23 down significantly when the timing works in your favor. For an exact, current price on your specific trip, request a quote, and you will see real availability rather than an estimate.

Who Should Charter the Fairchild Metro 23?

The Fairchild Metro 23 fits a wide set of missions, which is part of why it stays busy. It is a strong match for:

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Small executive teams traveling together to a meeting, site visit, or conference

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Regional and many transcontinental business trips that need to be completed in a single day

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Families or groups of up to eight heading to a vacation or event

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Travelers carrying bulkier baggage, such as golf clubs or ski gear

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Anyone who values flexible airport access and a stand-up cabin over the lowest possible price

The Metro 23 isn’t suited for long-haul or international journeys, nor is it the most economical choice for solo travelers or small groups. For regional charters with up to 19 passengers—corporate shuttles, sports teams, or event transfers—it offers unmatched value and access to secondary airports.

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How the Fairchild Metro 23 Compares to Other Airliner

The Fairchild Metro 23 was developed as the final evolution of the successful Metro family, which originated in the 1960s as the Swearingen Merlin commuter series. By the early 1990s, Fairchild Aircraft had refined the design to create the Metro 23, introducing improved engines, a digital avionics suite, and enhanced passenger comfort.


This model quickly won favor with regional airlines thanks to its outstanding fuel economy, short-field capability, and low maintenance costs. The Metro 23’s robust airframe and systems were engineered for the high-frequency cycles of commercial use, making it equally attractive for private charters seeking reliability and efficiency.


After a production run that spanned much of the 1990s, the Metro 23 remains in service worldwide, supported by a global maintenance network and a reputation for dependable operations. Its enduring value lies in a design that balances performance, passenger capacity, and cost-efficiency for group travel.

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Fairchild Metro 23 History and Background

The Fairchild Metro 23 was developed as the final evolution of the successful Metro family, which originated in the 1960s as the Swearingen Merlin commuter series. By the early 1990s, Fairchild Aircraft had refined the design to create the Metro 23, introducing improved engines, a digital avionics suite, and enhanced passenger comfort.


This model quickly won favor with regional airlines thanks to its outstanding fuel economy, short-field capability, and low maintenance costs. The Metro 23’s robust airframe and systems were engineered for the high-frequency cycles of commercial use, making it equally attractive for private charters seeking reliability and efficiency.


After a production run that spanned much of the 1990s, the Metro 23 remains in service worldwide, supported by a global maintenance network and a reputation for dependable operations. Its enduring value lies in a design that balances performance, passenger capacity, and cost-efficiency for group travel.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Passengers Can the Fairchild Metro 23 Carry?

The Fairchild Metro 23 is typically configured for 19 passengers in a single-aisle arrangement, with all seats facing forward. The cabin is designed for group travel, making it a favorite for corporate, sports, and event charters.

What Is the Range of the Fairchild Metro 23?

The Fairchild Metro 23 has a range of approximately 2408 nautical miles, or roughly 2770 statute miles. That is enough to fly most regional routes and many transcontinental trips nonstop, with the longest coast-to-coast legs occasionally needing a brief fuel stop depending on winds and load.

How Fast Does the Fairchild Metro 23 Fly?

Its high-speed cruise is 270 knots (about 311 mph), with a long-range cruise near 250 knots. The aircraft's 25000-foot service ceiling lets it fly above most weather and traffic for a smoother, more direct trip.

How Much Does It Cost to Charter a Fairchild Metro 23?

Charter rates generally fall between roughly $2800 and $3500 per flight hour, depending on the route, season, repositioning, and fees. Because Jettly is a marketplace, you can compare live quotes from multiple Part 135 operators and book the best option for your trip; empty-leg flights can lower the cost further.

Does the Hawker Fairchild Metro 23 Have a Stand-up Cabin?

Yes. The Metro 23 features a stand-up cabin height of approximately 5 feet 10 inches, allowing passengers to move comfortably. It is equipped with a forward galley, overhead storage, and an aft lavatory for passenger convenience.

Is the Fairchild Metro 23 Good for Transcontinental Flights?

For most regional routes, the Metro 23 is an excellent option. It can efficiently connect city pairs like Dallas to Chicago or Los Angeles to Denver nonstop, but is not intended for coast-to-coast trips.

Jettly gives you access to a global marketplace of more than 23,000 aircraft, including Fairchild Metro 23 jets operated by vetted FAA Part 135 Part 135 carriers. Compare live quotes, check real availability, and book with full concierge support, whether you are planning a single regional hop or a recurring travel schedule.

Enter your route and dates to get instant pricing on the Fairchild Metro 23, or speak with our team about empty-leg deals and membership options that can bring your cost per trip down even further.

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