Originally Posted by
cavuman1
Just as the Lockheed 1049 Super Constellation was being retired in the mid-1960s in favor of jet transports, my father and I were traveling to Dallas, Texas to visit family. Our brief flight from Hartford to New York was aboard a Super Connie and my father, a Naval Architect and Aviation Aficionado, was elated! He looked out over the starboard wing and said "Look at those engines, son! More than 3,000 horsepower each!" As if on cue, #3 turned over, 12-blades, belch of fire and exhaust, a cough and then trembled to life. #4 joined her sister, and before we knew it, we were aloft, bound for the Big Apple. As we reached cruising altitude, probably ~FL100, Dad said "Ed, think of it - this bird cruises 100 miles per hour
faster than a Japanese Zero!" His face was a gentle visage of satisfaction and pride in American Engineering. We landed at JFK after a short flight and as we deplaned, I knew we were stepping out of a piece of aviation history. I looked over my shoulder at the svelte airframe with her long legs. I looked up at my Dad. Great aircraft. Great Father.
- Ed
Still flying, you know. I hope to get to visit the last survivor when I get to Australia later this year.