P4063 CONSTELLATION - ETHIOPIAN

The Lockheed Constellation was an American passenger and transport plane from the Second World War and the post-war period. The drive - in the L-1049G version - was provided by four engines Wright R-3350-DA3, 3250 hp each . The prototype flight took place in May 1943. The serial production lasted in the years 1943-1958 and resulted in the creation of approx. 850 aircraft of this type. The Lockheed Constellation was originally planned as a long-range airliner for Trans Word Airlines in 1939. The new machine was distinguished by a rear tail with three lobes, it was also aerodynamically refined and used many technological innovations of that time, such as enhanced control of hydraulic systems or wing de-icing systems. The plane, however, with the US joining the war in 1941, partially changed its character and was also developed as a transport plane. He served in the USAAF in this dual role in the period 1943-1945. On the other hand, from October 1945, the production of the civilian, passenger version was started. Several versions of this very successful aircraft were created in its course, including: L-649 (passenger version, which can take up to 81 passengers), L-749 (version with increased range enabling transatlantic flights) or L-1049 Super Constellation ( extended version, which can take up to 109 passengers). It wasn't until the advent of passenger jet planes like the Boeing 707 that clearly diminished the importance of Lockheed Constellation in air transport.