Convair 990A American Airlines

General Product Description

Our PlaneArts Convair 990A American Airlines model exhibits unique, unrivaled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual plane. It comes as standard with a robust, durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished metal supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 9-10 weeks from placement of order.

The Convair 990A American Airlines model is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. We can, however, if required produce the same model in Solid Cast Resin so just click and contact us us for further information. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model airplanes match the precise blueprint details of the original aircraft. The paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original aircraft. This stylish top-quality desktop replica model will surely enthrall anyone who receives this as a gift and for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for any aviation enthusiast and avid aircraft collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual aircraft.

If you require we can also make the Convair 990A American Airlines model in any other airline, private livery or colour scheme you require and if necessary in a different size or scale. Just click here to contact us with a description or photographs of what you require, and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customization by return email. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military jet, warplane jets, propeller warplanes, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce model airships, blimp, dirigible, blimps, boat and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Again, by clicking here to contact us just let us know exactly what you need.

The Convair 990A Coronado: The Swift Jetliner of American Airlines

In the pantheon of commercial aviation, the Convair 990A Coronado holds a special place, especially within the fleet of American Airlines. This jetliner, a product of the Convair division of General Dynamics, was an attempt to challenge the Boeing 707 and Douglas DC-8 in the early 1960s. Despite its limited success compared to its rivals, the Convair 990A incorporated several advanced features that made it one of the fastest subsonic jet airliners of its time. Let’s delve into the defining characteristics and legacy of this remarkable aircraft within American Airlines.

Pioneering Speed and Efficiency:

The Convair 990A was designed with speed in mind. It boasted an impressive cruising speed of up to 615 mph (990 km/h), outpacing most of its contemporaries. This was achieved through the integration of unique aerodynamic features, including anti-shock bodies on the wings, which reduced drag and allowed for more efficient high-speed flight. These “speed pods” also provided additional fuel storage, extending the aircraft’s range.

Innovations in Comfort and Performance:

American Airlines, keen on offering unparalleled service, capitalized on the 990A’s advanced design. The aircraft featured a pressurized cabin that could comfortably accommodate up to 149 passengers, a significant capacity for its time. The interior was designed to provide a luxurious experience, with more legroom and improved seat design compared to earlier jetliners. The Convair 990A also introduced innovations such as more powerful and efficient engines, specifically the General Electric CJ805-23B turbofans, which were a civilian version of the military’s J79 jet engine. These engines not only provided the thrust needed for the aircraft’s notable speed but also included sound suppressors to reduce noise, enhancing passenger comfort.

Operational Use and Legacy:

American Airlines utilized the Convair 990A primarily on its coast-to-coast routes, where the aircraft’s speed could significantly reduce travel time. The airline marketed the 990A as the “Astrojet,” emphasizing its advanced technology and performance capabilities. However, the aircraft’s operational history was not without challenges. The initial high expectations were tempered by issues such as higher than anticipated operating costs and limited market demand, leading to a relatively small production run of 37 aircraft for American Airlines.

Despite these challenges, the Convair 990A made a lasting impact on commercial aviation. It set benchmarks for speed and efficiency that influenced the design of future airliners. Moreover, the 990A’s distinctive appearance, with its sleek lines and four rear-mounted engines, made it one of the most recognizable jetliners of its era.

Conclusion:

The Convair 990A Coronado remains a symbol of innovation and ambition in the history of commercial aviation. For American Airlines, it represented a bold step forward in offering its passengers unparalleled speed and comfort. While the 990A did not achieve the widespread success of some of its rivals, its legacy lives on in the advancements it brought to the industry and in the memories of those who had the opportunity to fly aboard this iconic jetliner. The Convair 990A is a testament to the era of rapid technological progress in aviation, embodying the spirit of an age that pushed the boundaries of what was possible in commercial air travel.