Lockheed’s seminal Constellation first flew in 1943 and became, as the L-1049 Super Constellation that first flew in 1950, arguably the most iconic piston airliner of the period. According to the National Air and Space Museum, “The Super Constellation and its derivatives represent, along with the Douglas DC-7, the ultimate step in the development of longer range, more capacity and more powerful piston-engined aircraft to meet the needs of both commercial and military aviation.” Through the Super Constellation’s production run, some 579 were produced, the last of which were hanging on in U.S. domestic service through 1980. The Connie celebrating this milestone, an F model, first flew on Oct. 13, 1950.
If I remember correctly, he planned on racing this airplane in the Mojave 1000 air race. There had been a DC6 running in that race. Needless to say, the little friends were not pleased to have a DC6 and a Connie running laps with them. The fighters would be running similar speeds with tanks just to make range without a pit stop, so it made sense to run the big boys.
My first vivid recollection of an airplane was in 1954 at the age of five as I disembarked off what I had been told was a “Super G Constellation” from New York to Los Angeles. I vividly remember descending down the air stair, turning back to look at the airplane, seeing three verticals, and getting goose bumps. I remember nothing else of that flight. Those goose bumps still come back, most notably now every time I see a lone Connie sitting near the north end at SLN seemingly ready and willing to fly.
The ex-Slick 1049H/G, painted in TWA colors at Kansas City Downtown is well worth a visit. Great staff there too. Not sure if they are open right now re Covid though.