Lockheed Model 10 Electra
Introduction
The Lockheed Model 10 Electra is a twin-engine, all-metal monoplane that played a significant role in the evolution of commercial aviation during the 1930s. Developed by the Lockheed Aircraft Corporation, the Electra was designed to compete with the Boeing 247 and the Douglas DC-2. Its innovative design and advanced features made it a popular choice among airlines and private owners alike. The aircraft is perhaps best known for its association with Amelia Earhart, who disappeared during an attempt to circumnavigate the globe in a Model 10 Electra.
Development and Design
The development of the Lockheed Model 10 Electra began in the early 1930s, driven by the demand for a modern, efficient airliner capable of carrying passengers and cargo over medium distances. The design team, led by Clarence "Kelly" Johnson, focused on creating an aircraft that combined speed, range, and passenger comfort.
The Electra featured an all-metal construction, which was a significant advancement over the predominantly wooden and fabric aircraft of the time. Its low-wing monoplane design provided better aerodynamics and stability. The twin-engine configuration, using Pratt & Whitney R-985 Wasp Junior radial engines, offered redundancy and improved performance, which was a crucial safety feature for airlines.
The aircraft's cabin was designed to accommodate up to ten passengers, with amenities such as soundproofing and heating, which were considered luxurious at the time. The cockpit was equipped with advanced instrumentation, including an autopilot system, which was a pioneering feature in commercial aviation.
Operational History
The Lockheed Model 10 Electra made its first flight on February 23, 1934, and quickly garnered attention for its performance and reliability. It was adopted by several major airlines, including American Airlines, Eastern Air Lines, and Northwest Airlines. The Electra was also used by various military forces, including the United States Army Air Corps and the Royal Air Force, for transport and training purposes.
One of the most notable uses of the Electra was by Amelia Earhart, who attempted to fly around the world in a specially modified Model 10E variant. Unfortunately, Earhart and her navigator, Fred Noonan, disappeared over the Pacific Ocean in 1937, leading to one of aviation's greatest mysteries.
The Electra's versatility also made it popular among private owners and charter operators. Its ability to operate from short and unpaved runways made it suitable for use in remote areas, contributing to its widespread adoption.
Technical Specifications
The Lockheed Model 10 Electra was powered by two Pratt & Whitney R-985 Wasp Junior SB radial engines, each producing 450 horsepower. This powerplant configuration allowed the Electra to achieve a maximum speed of approximately 202 mph (325 km/h) and a cruising speed of 190 mph (306 km/h). The aircraft had a service ceiling of 19,400 feet (5,913 meters) and a range of 810 miles (1,304 kilometers).
The Electra's wingspan measured 55 feet (16.76 meters), with an overall length of 38 feet 7 inches (11.76 meters) and a height of 10 feet 1 inch (3.07 meters). The aircraft's maximum takeoff weight was 10,100 pounds (4,581 kilograms), and it could carry a payload of up to 2,500 pounds (1,134 kilograms).
Variants
Several variants of the Lockheed Model 10 Electra were produced to meet different operational requirements:
- Model 10A: The standard production version, equipped with Pratt & Whitney R-985 Wasp Junior SB engines.
- Model 10B: A variant powered by Wright R-975-E3 Whirlwind engines, offering similar performance to the 10A.
- Model 10E: A high-performance version with more powerful Pratt & Whitney R-1340 Wasp SC1 engines, used by Amelia Earhart for her ill-fated world flight.
- Model 10F: A military variant used by the United States Army Air Corps, designated as the C-36.
Legacy and Impact
The Lockheed Model 10 Electra's impact on aviation was significant, as it set new standards for performance, safety, and passenger comfort. Its success paved the way for subsequent Lockheed designs, such as the Model 12 Electra Junior and the Model 14 Super Electra, which further advanced the capabilities of commercial airliners.
The Electra's design principles influenced the development of future aircraft, contributing to the evolution of modern aviation. Its role in pioneering long-distance flights and its association with aviation icons like Amelia Earhart cemented its place in aviation history.
Preservation and Surviving Aircraft
Several Lockheed Model 10 Electras have been preserved in museums and private collections worldwide. These aircraft serve as a testament to the Electra's enduring legacy and provide valuable insights into the early days of commercial aviation.
Notable examples include the Electra on display at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, which highlights the aircraft's historical significance. Other preserved Electras can be found at the Museum of Flight in Seattle and the New England Air Museum in Connecticut.