The Lockheed Constellation is a series of propeller-driven airliners designed and manufactured by Lockheed in the late 1940s and early 1950s. Known for its distinctive triple-tail design, the Constellation was one of the most advanced and elegant airliners of its time. Initially developed for commercial airline service, it quickly became a favorite among transatlantic travelers due to its speed and long-range capabilities.

The Lockheed Starliner was a civilian version of the Constellation, optimized for longer-range, transcontinental flights. The Constellation series played a key role in the early development of modern air travel, and many examples also found success in military transport and reconnaissance roles.

Key Specifications (Lockheed L-1049 Super Constellation)

• Crew: 4–5 (depending on configuration).
• Capacity: Typically 64–95 passengers.
• Length: 32.31 m (106 ft 4 in).
• Wingspan: 37.58 m (123 ft 3 in).
• Height: 8.91 m (29 ft 3 in).
• Max Takeoff Weight (MTOW): ~62,200 kg (137,000 lb).
• Engines: 4 × Wright R-3350 Duplex-Cyclone radial engines.
• Maximum Speed: ~561 km/h (348 mph).
• Cruise Speed: ~484 km/h (301 mph).
• Range: ~5,200 km (3,200 mi).
• Service Ceiling: ~7,620 m (25,000 ft).

Notable Features

• Distinctive triple-tail design: The three-tail configuration was a unique feature that gave the Constellation its iconic look and enhanced stability.
• Long-range and high-speed capabilities, making it ideal for long-distance flights across oceans and continents.
• Pressurized cabin, providing passengers with a more comfortable flight experience at higher altitudes.
• Advanced aerodynamics for its time, including a laminar-flow wing design that reduced drag and improved fuel efficiency.
• Four radial engines provided powerful thrust, enabling the aircraft to carry a heavy payload over long distances.

Operators & Usage

• Commercial Aviation: The Constellation series was widely used by TWA (Trans World Airlines), American Airlines, and Pan American World Airways for long-distance, transcontinental flights.
• Military Operators: The U.S. Air Force and other nations used modified versions for reconnaissance, transport, and air refueling missions under the designations C-69 and VC-121.
• Cargo and Conversion: Many civilian Constellations were converted for cargo use or sold to freight companies, serving as workhorse air freighters for many years.

Variants

• L-749 Constellation: Early version for commercial airliners, designed for longer-range flights.
• L-1049 Super Constellation: Upgraded version with more powerful engines and extended range.
• L-1649 Starliner: The final and most advanced variant of the Constellation, featuring improved aerodynamics and a pressurized fuselage.
• C-69 Constellation: Military transport version, adapted for cargo and personnel transport.
• VC-121 Constellation: Military VIP transport used by the U.S. government.
• L-1049F: Cargo variant, converted for freight operations.