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    N1552V: Exploring the Legendary Lockheed L-749A Constellation
    • Jan 07, 2025
    • by Dianna Lopez

    N1552V: Exploring the Legendary Lockheed L-749A Constellation

    • Jan 07, 2025
    • by Dianna Lopez

    The Lockheed L-749A Constellation, affectionately known as "Connie," is an icon of aviation history, celebrated for its elegant design and groundbreaking contributions to both commercial and military aviation. Among the remarkable examples of this aircraft is N1552V, a historical plane whose legacy lives on through MotoArt’s preservation efforts. By salvaging its skin, MotoArt has created exclusive PlaneTags, offering enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of this legendary aircraft—keep reading to learn more about the Connie and how to get your own Lockheed L-749A Constellation PlaneTags!



    What is the Lockheed L-749A Constellation? 

    L-749

    35am - The Constellation Group Lockheed L-749 Constellation; N494TW@ACH;08.08.1998 flickr photo by Aero Icarus shared under a Creative Commons (BY-SA) license

     

    The Lockheed L-749A Constellation is a four-engine, propeller-driven aircraft renowned for its sleek design, triple-tail configuration, and pressurized cabin, which set new standards in aviation. Introduced in the late 1940s, it was designed for long-range commercial flights, connecting continents with unprecedented speed and luxury. In addition to serving as a flagship for airlines like TWA and Pan Am, the L-749A also saw use in military operations as a transport and reconnaissance aircraft, showcasing its versatility and innovation.

     

    lockheed constellation

    Chicago Midway Airport - TWA - Lockheed Constellation (049) flickr photo by twa1049g shared under a Creative Commons (BY) license

     

    Lockheed Constellation: Development and Design

    The Lockheed Constellation series was born out of a vision to create a fast, efficient, and luxurious aircraft capable of revolutionizing air travel. Designed in the early 1940s under the guidance of aviation pioneer Howard Hughes, who heavily influenced its specifications for TWA, the Constellation was a collaborative effort between Lockheed and aviation experts. Its development was accelerated by wartime demands, with the first models serving as military transport aircraft during World War II before transitioning into commercial service. The L-749A variant, introduced in 1947, represented a significant leap forward with enhanced range and performance, making it a cornerstone of postwar aviation.

    constellation planetags

    Howard Hughes, with Boeing plane - Public Domain, Link

     

    The Lockheed Constellation’s design is as iconic as it is functional, characterized by its graceful curves and distinctive triple-tail configuration, which allowed it to fit into smaller hangars. Its pressurized cabin was a groundbreaking feature, enabling higher-altitude flights for smoother, faster, and more comfortable travel. The aircraft’s powerful Wright R-3350 engines delivered exceptional speed and range, making it one of the first airliners capable of non-stop transcontinental and transatlantic flights. The sleek, dolphin-shaped fuselage not only reduced drag but also gave the Constellation its unmistakable silhouette, earning it a reputation as one of the most elegant planes ever built.


    The C-69: The Military Version of the Lockheed L-749A

     

    C-69

    Public Domain, Link


    The C-69 was the military counterpart to the Lockheed L-749A Constellation, developed during World War II to meet the U.S. Army Air Forces' need for a high-speed, long-range transport aircraft. Adapted from the commercial design, the C-69 featured modifications such as reinforced flooring, larger cargo doors, and the ability to accommodate troops, cargo, or medical evacuation missions. Initially intended to replace slower, less efficient transports like the Douglas C-47 Skytrain, the C-69 was primarily used for transcontinental and transatlantic flights, delivering personnel and supplies faster than ever before. However, with the end of the war, only a handful of C-69s were produced before the focus shifted to civilian aviation. The military role of the C-69 was later succeeded by aircraft such as the Douglas C-54 Skymaster and the Lockheed C-121 Constellation, the latter an advanced military derivative of the Constellation series that continued its legacy into the postwar years.

     

    Lockheed L-749A Constellation At A Glance

    lockheed constellation at a glance

     

    Lockheed L-749A Specifications:

    • Manufacturer: Lockheed
    • Type: L-749A Constellation
    • Tail #: N1552V
    • Crew: 6-8 (2x Pilots, 1x Radio Operator, 1x Engineer, 2x-4x Flight Attendants)
    • Passengers: 72
    • Wing Span: 123 ft 0 in
    • Length: 94 ft 4 in
    • Height: 22 ft 5 in 

     

     Lockheed L-749A Performance:

    • Range: 4,995 mi
    • Cruise Speed: 345 mph
    • Ceiling: 24,100 ft
    • Empty Weight: 56,590 lb
    • Max Takeoff Weight: 107,000 lb
    • Rate of Climb: 1,620 ft/min
    • Engine: 4x Wright R-3350 Duplex-Cyclone 

     

    The Legacy and Impact of the Lockheed Constellation

    The Lockheed Constellation left an indelible mark on aviation history, redefining what was possible for both commercial and military aircraft. During its era, the Constellation was a symbol of innovation and progress, offering faster speeds, longer ranges, and unmatched passenger comfort. It pioneered non-stop transcontinental and transatlantic flights, connecting distant parts of the world like never before and laying the foundation for the modern era of global air travel. Airlines such as TWA and Pan Am used the Constellation as a flagship aircraft, promoting luxury and efficiency that captured the imagination of travelers worldwide. Its versatility also extended to military applications, where it served as a vital transport and reconnaissance platform, further solidifying its place in aviation lore.



    Spotlight on N1552V

    Photo courtesy of Wing attack Plan R

     

    Built as an L-749 and later converted to an upgraded L-749A in 1951, N1552V embodies the evolution and versatility of the Constellation series. Originally delivered to Air India, N1552V began its career connecting global destinations during the postwar boom in air travel. Over the years, it served with distinction for prestigious airlines such as Qantas and British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC) before joining Pacific/Western Airlines, in 1958. This Connie’s career reflects the golden age of aviation, shuttling passengers across continents and oceans with its characteristic speed, comfort, and elegance. On November 26, 1968, N1552V completed its final North American passenger flight and was retired the same day, closing a chapter on its illustrious service. But retirement has not marked the end of its story.

     

    Western Airlines and the Lockheed L-749: Connecting the West

    Western Airlines, one of the oldest names in American aviation, was founded in 1925 as Western Air Express, starting as a mail carrier before transitioning to passenger service. Rebranded as Western Airlines in 1941, the airline became a pioneer in connecting the western United States and beyond. In the late 1950s, Western added the Lockheed L-749 Constellation to its fleet, using this reliable aircraft to service long-haul routes across the western U.S., Alaska, and Hawaii. The Connie’s range and performance allowed Western Airlines to expand its network, offering passengers a comfortable and efficient way to travel during the golden age of aviation.

    Over the years, Western Airlines grew through strategic mergers and acquisitions, including its absorption of Pacific Northern Airlines in 1967, which further solidified its position in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest. Eventually, in 1987, Western Airlines merged with Delta Air Lines, marking the end of its independent operations but ensuring its legacy lived on as part of Delta’s extensive global network.

     

    MotoArt Gets a Connie 

     

    In 2024, the MotoArt team traveled outside of California to meet this Connie in person. Says MotoArt PlaneTags owner Dave Hall, "We found out about a possible Lockheed Constellation located in Kenai, Alaska. It was being offered for free, it was a derelict plane that was taking up space and needed to be removed as soon as possible. I knew immediately we needed to preserve this historic aircraft so it wasn’t scrapped for good! The Constellation is such an iconic aircraft, and the stories from it will live on forever."

     

     

    The MotoArt team headed up to Alaska to acquire N1552V’s skin, preserving its legacy by crafting exclusive PlaneTags that allow aviation enthusiasts to own a piece of this remarkable aircraft. Through these PlaneTags, the spirit of N1552V lives on, connecting collectors to the history of one of the most iconic planes ever built.

     

     

    Beyond its new life as PlaneTags, N1552V is also stepping into a unique role in the entertainment industry, under the creative hand of Scroggins Aviation. Its cockpit will be preserved and utilized in filmmaking, ensuring that its elegant lines and historic presence continue to inspire and captivate audiences on the silver screen. From its service with world-renowned airlines to its new story, N1552V remains a shining example of the Lockheed Constellation’s enduring impact on aviation and culture.

     

     

    Lockheed L-749A Constellation PlaneTags

     

    Lockheed Connie PlaneTags will be available beginning noon PST on January 9, 2025 at planetags.com. The limited edition series is numbered to 7,500 PlaneTags so secure yours quickly before they run out. 

    Don’t miss your opportunity to own a piece of Lockheed history! Some of our other Lockheed PlaneTags have completely sold out - including the SR-71 Blackbird and the C-130A. Secure your Connie while you can.

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    0 comments
      • Dec 17, 2024
      • by Dianna Lopez

      TBM Avenger: From Naval Reserve Trainer to Restoration

      • Jan 21, 2025
      • by Dianna Lopez

      McDonnell F-101A Voodoo: From Supersonic Fighter to NASA Trainer

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    Cessna 402: Cape Air’s Iconic Regional Aircraft
    • Aug 20, 2025
    • 0 comments

    Cessna 402: Cape Air’s Iconic Regional Aircraft

    The Cessna 402 has long been celebrated as a versatile workhorse of regional aviation. At MotoArt, we’re thrilled to give a new life to one of these legendary aircraft, N1361G, formerly operated by Cape Air, through our exclusive PlaneTags collection. These tags allow aviation enthusiasts and collectors to hold a tangible piece of history from a plane that served faithfully for decades.

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    B-29 Superfortress: “Jack’s Hack” Lives On
    • Aug 05, 2025
    • 0 comments

    B-29 Superfortress: “Jack’s Hack” Lives On

    Crafted from the skin of B-29A Superfortress S/N 44-61975, this PlaneTag honors an aircraft that served in Cold War operations and survived two brushes with destruction. Rescued by the New England Air Museum and restored as "Jack’s Hack," it now lives on as a collectible piece of aviation history.

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    Gimli Glider: A Legendary Landing and a New Way to Own History
    • Jul 22, 2025
    • 0 comments

    Gimli Glider: A Legendary Landing and a New Way to Own History

    On July 23, 1983, an incident took place that would forever change the way we think about aviation safety. Air Canada Flight 143, later dubbed the "Gimli Glider," became the star of one of the most remarkable feats of piloting in history. When the aircraft's fuel system failed mid-flight, and its engines went silent, the crew had no choice but to make an emergency landing. What followed was nothing short of extraordinary: a dead-stick landing at the former Gimli, Manitoba, race track, which saw all 69 people aboard walk away unharmed.

    Join us as we take a deeper dive into the Gimli Glider’s history, its unforgettable incident, and how MotoArt continues to preserve its legacy for future generations.

    Read more

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