The
Constellation first flew in January 1943. Built by Lockheed based on specifications and directives from eccentric millionaire Howard Hughes to equip his new airline TWA. It was powered by four Wright R-3350
Duplex-Cyclone engines. The same engine that powered the Boeing B-29
Superfortress and the Douglas A-1
Skyraider.
WWII intervened and the
Constellation was drafted into the Air Force as the C-69 military transport. After the war improved versions the
Super Constellation and C-121 entered production. Widely popular in both civilian and military service, the Constellation had a successful 30+ year career and was made in large numbers and in many interesting variations, including a powerful turbo-prop version that never went beyond the prototype stage.
A recently restored Lockheed
Super Connie at the Museum of Flight in Seattle Washington c. 2012.
The recently restored and air worthy Breitling
Super Constellation "Star of Switzerland". Currently flying the airshow circuit in Europe c. 2013.
A US Navy Lockheed WC-121N
"Willie Victor"of VW-4
Hurricane Hunters in 1967.
View of the radar operators in an USAF EC-121D
"Warning Star" aircraft of the 552nd Airborne Early Warning & Control Wing. Part of the
Big Eye Task Force during the Vietnam War.