Kansas Connie

Air Classics, Nov 2003

In relatively good condition, this could be another flyer

Rarely photographed Lockheed L-749A Constellation N12056 (c/n 2613) still survives at the Salina Municipal Airport (SLN) in Kansas where it has been parked since 1967, reports Ralph M. Pettersen. This aircraft was one of two WV-1s delivered to the Navy in 1949 and was essentially the prototype of the many Super Constellation WV-2s and EC-121s that followed. During its service with the Navy, it was fitted with various radar radomes necessitating the larger fins.

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Retired by the Navy in 1957, the radomes were removed and the plane served with the FAA from 1958 to 1966. It was flown to Salina in February 1967 and, with the exception of a short flight in 1992, it has remained grounded ever since. In November 1992, owner Gordon Cole attempted a flight to Addison, Texas, with a flight crew from the Save-A-Connie (now Airline History Museum) organization. Almost immediately after takeoff, the aircraft began experiencing engine problems necessitating a return to Salina with one engine feathered. It has remained there ever since and is in reasonable condition. Students from an aviation school located on the airport apparently look after the aircraft and have polished it on more than one occasion. Hopefully, this rare aircraft can find its way into a museum.

Copyright Challenge Publications Inc. Nov 2003
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved

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Kansas Connie

Air Classics, Nov 2003

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