General Product Description

Our PlaneArts Lockheed Electra L-188 Air California 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 Lockheed Electra L-188 Air California 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 Lockheed Electra L-188 Air California 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 Iconic Lockheed Electra L-188: A Beacon of Air California’s Fleet

The Lockheed Electra L-188, once a mainstay of Air California’s fleet, remains an emblem of the golden era of turbo-prop airliners. As one of the first American turboprop aircraft, the Lockheed Electra L-188 pioneered advancements in aviation technology and service, particularly with carriers like Air California. Here, we delve into the Electra’s significant features and its role with Air California, highlighting its historical and technical legacy.

Innovation in the Sky: Technical Features of the Electra L-188

The Lockheed Electra L-188 was introduced in the late 1950s as a direct response to the growing demand for quicker, more efficient regional air travel. Powered by four Allison 501-D13 turboprop engines, the Electra offered a blend of the speed of a jet with the economic advantages of a propeller aircraft. Its engines produced a power output that allowed the Electra to cruise at speeds up to 375 mph, nearly bridging the gap between earlier propeller planes and the emerging jet airliners.

With a typical seating configuration for 85 to 99 passengers, the L-188 was designed for medium-range flights, boasting a maximum range of approximately 2,500 miles. This capability made it ideal for Air California’s intra-state routes, efficiently connecting cities across California without the need for refueling.

Designed for Safety and Efficiency:

One of the Electra’s standout features was its advanced soundproofing, a significant selling point that enhanced passenger comfort. Its airframe was also known for robustness, incorporating fail-safe design principles that increased safety and operational reliability. However, early in its service life, the Electra faced challenges, most notably a series of incidents related to wing structure failures. These issues led to a comprehensive redesign of the wing mountings and other structural components, which ultimately reinforced the aircraft’s safety credentials and restored confidence among passengers and operators alike.

Air California: Electrifying Regional Air Travel

Air California, founded in 1967, became synonymous with the Electra shortly after it began operations. The carrier initially utilized the Electra to capitalize on its speedy performance and economical operation, attributes that were critical for competitive regional service. The L-188 allowed Air California to establish a strong network linking key cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego, thus playing a pivotal role in the airline’s growth and popularity.

The choice of the Electra also reflected Air California’s commitment to providing reliable and comfortable service. Its quick boarding and de-boarding processes, facilitated by the aircraft’s design, were particularly suited to the short-haul nature of most of its flights. Additionally, the Electra’s capability to operate in various weather conditions and from shorter runways gave Air California an operational flexibility that was unmatched at the time.

Legacy and Lasting Impact:

Despite being overshadowed by the jet age, the Lockheed Electra L-188’s influence on regional aviation, particularly with carriers like Air California, is indelible. The aircraft not only marked a technological leap in aviation but also exemplified the possibilities of regional air travel in expanding the accessibility and connectivity of cities across large states like California.

Even though Air California eventually transitioned to an all-jet fleet and was absorbed into American Airlines in 1987, the legacy of the Electra L-188 endures. It remains a symbol of a transformative period in aviation history, celebrated for its technological innovations and its significant role in enhancing regional air travel.