L-1049 Super Constellation TWA (1:72)

Span: 20.56"
Length: 18.93"

The Lockheed Constellation or Connie started out as a slightly smaller plane with less powerful motors. As new radical engines were developed, it was stretched and modified to accommodate the new motors. These Connies with longer bodies were called Super Constellations. On February 6, 1946, Trans World Airlines (TWA) opened post-war commercial intercontinental air service with a New York-Paris flight in a Constellation. As the first pressurized airliner in widespread use, the aircraft helped provide affordable and comfortable air travel for the masses. It became extremely popular and was soon bought by a number of other airlines, including Pan American World Airways, Air France and Lufthansa.

The L-1049 Super Constellation was the first of the stretched Connies. It was 5.6 m longer than previous basic models. The stretch was accomplished by splicing an extra 2.8 m section into the body just in front, and another just aft of the wing. The L-1049 also had more powerful turbo compound R-3350 engines and additional fuel tanks. It first flew on December 12, 1954. The L-1049 was the most successful variant and with it, TWA was able to offer nonstop coast to coast and transatlantic flights.

The emergence of jet airliners led to the obsolescence of the piston-engined Constellation. Its final passenger flight in the United States was made by a TWA L-749 aircraft on May 11, 1967, from Philadelphia to Kansas City. Many Constellations served as fast freighters for years to come. In recent years, several have been restored and a few even participate in air shows.