The Lockheed L-188 Electra is an American turboprop airliner built by Lockheed. It was the first large turboprop aircraft built in the United States. Its distinctive sound and design made it a notable aircraft of its era, though its passenger service life was relatively short due to early issues.
Here's a short description of its key features:
- Engines: It is powered by four Allison 501-D13 turboprop engines, which give it a unique, high-pitched "whine" sound that is quite recognizable.
- Capacity: Typically configured to carry between 85 and 98 passengers, though it could hold up to 99.
- Range: It was designed for medium-range routes.
- Distinctive Features:
- Low-wing design: A conventional low-wing monoplane.
- Short, Stout Fuselage: Compared to modern jets, it had a relatively short and wide fuselage.
- Sharp, Pointed Nose: Its nose cone has a fairly distinct, pointed appearance.
The Electra first flew in 1957 and entered service in 1959. While initially popular, it faced significant challenges early in its career due to a series of fatal accidents caused by wing flutter. These issues were resolved with structural modifications, but the public's confidence was shaken, and the rise of jet aircraft further limited its appeal for passenger service.
Despite its early troubles, the L-188 Electra found a long and successful second life as a freighter aircraft (known as the L-188C or as the "Freightliner") and as a military patrol aircraft (the P-3 Orion, which is heavily derived from the Electra's design and is still in service today).
