The 1943 Constellation
18” x 24” Painted in 1976
When the Lockheed Constellation entered commercial airline service with Pan American Airways in February 1946 it was already a proven aircraft.
Originally conceived by Lockheed and Howard Hughes specifically for Transcontinental and Western Airlines (TWA), the first prototype flew January 9, 1943. Capable of cruising at 25,000 feet with a top speed of 347 mph, the Connie was in a class by itself. All initial production was requisitioned by the U.S.A.A.F. and the L-049 began life as the C-69 military transport; the start of an evolutionary career which saw the basic airframe modified, stretched and re-engine to fill many roles, including: warning, picket duty, electronic countermeasures, executive VIP transport and long-range cargo hauler.
The commercial success of the Constellation was even more pronounced. Continuous improvement kept the Connie in production until the advent of turbine-powered transports spelled the end for piston-engine aircraft in first line passenger service. ​
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