In 1949, when Lockheed had test-flown its L-749A at a gross weight of 133,000 pounds, it had become obvious that the basic Constellation airframe still had a great deal of growth left in it. but there was a real question in everyone's mind at Burbank as to how all this potential growth was to be utilized. The idea of more speed resulting from larger powerplants was quickly dropped. Aside from the fact that a moderate increase in horesepower would result in very little additional speed, more speed was not what the airlines seemed to feel they needed just then. Greater payload for the same basic airplane was found not to be the answer either. The airlines were generally content with the very considerable range available to the L-749 and L-749A models. As far as more payload in the form of either passengers or freight, where was one to put either? The existing fuselage was completely used. This rather automatically led to the next logical step. Because the basic airframe could withstand greater loads, how about stretching the fuselage, thus accomodating more passengers, baggage, mail, and freight? True, there was one pitfall. With the existing 2500-hp engines, a consiserable increase in weight would reduce the Constellation's performance substantially. Of even greater concern to the engineers was the fact that the considerable safety margins that were such an important feature of the Constellation and that had greatly helped in selling it would virtually disappear.

 

Fortunately for all, the Wright Company had developed still another version of their 3350 in the meantime. This one was known as the 956C18CA1, with a refinement known as the 975C18CB1. Developing 2700 hp in the CA1 and 2800 in the CB1. this gave the Lockheed design staff just about the amound of power they needed. Once again these engines had already been tested in military service in their similar military versions. Known as the R3350-26W, 26WA, and 26WB, the engine was produced to power a number of miitary aircraft, the biggest application being the Douglas AD-1, -3, -4, -5, -6, and -7 single-engine attack aircraft. With production of the military versions starting in early 1947 and over 3750 being built by 1956, the engine was already a proven product.

From 'Queen of the Skies' by Claude G. Luisada, ISBN 1-57197-417-2

1) Lockheed is now known as Lockheed Martin. What products and services are offered by Lockheed Martin?
http://www.lockheed-martin.com

2) Why did the airlines switch to jets in the 1960s? How did the jet age affect airports and the population living in the neighbourhood of airports?

3) What has become of the Wright Company? Are they still in the engine business?
http://www.curtisswright.com/

4) The Swiss SUPER CONSTELLATION FLYERS ASSOCIATION has their Super Constellation based at Basel-Mulhouse. How do they finance the flying and maintenance? Do they have a business plan?