General Product Description

Our PlaneArts Lockheed Tristar L-1011-500 Air Lanka 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 Tristar L-1011-500 Air Lanka 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 Tristar L-1011-500 Air Lanka 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 Lockheed Tristar L-1011-500: A Look at Air Lanka’s Iconic Widebody Airliner

The Lockheed L-1011 Tristar represents a remarkable era in aviation history, notable for its advanced technology and unique design. Among its variants, the L-1011-500 series, operated by Air Lanka (now SriLankan Airlines), stands out for its extended range and modifications tailored to long-haul flights. This article delves into the distinctive features of the Lockheed Tristar L-1011-500, highlighting its importance to Air Lanka and its role in transforming long-distance air travel.

Innovations and Design:

Introduced in the late 1970s, the L-1011-500 was the last version of the Lockheed Tristar series. It was specifically designed as a long-range aircraft, featuring a shortened fuselage to reduce weight while increasing fuel capacity for extended flights. This design modification allowed airlines to serve longer non-stop routes that were previously beyond their reach.

Performance and Specifications:

The L-1011-500 is powered by three Rolls-Royce RB211 turbofan engines, known for their fuel efficiency and lower noise levels compared to other engines of the time. These engines contribute to the aircraft’s ability to handle longer routes with fewer fuel stops. The L-1011-500 typically seats about 246 passengers in a two-class configuration, balancing capacity and comfort, which made it a popular choice among airlines for international travel.

Avionics and Safety Features:

Lockheed equipped the L-1011-500 with state-of-the-art avionics for its time. The aircraft was one of the first to feature an advanced autopilot system capable of fully automatic landings in low visibility conditions, a significant enhancement in terms of safety and operational efficiency. This technological advancement was a critical factor in the L-1011’s reputation for safety and reliability.

Air Lanka and the L-1011-500:

Air Lanka, which was established in 1979, chose the Lockheed L-1011-500 as a cornerstone of its fleet to expand its international routes, particularly in Asia and Europe. The aircraft’s long-range capability was perfectly suited to connect Colombo with destinations across Europe and the Middle East, significantly boosting the airline’s operational capacity and market reach.

Economic Impact and Operational Success:

The introduction of the L-1011-500 allowed Air Lanka to increase its service frequency and introduce direct routes that bypassed traditional airline hubs. This not only saved time for passengers but also positioned Air Lanka as a competitive player in the international aviation market. The aircraft’s reliability and lower operational cost also helped Air Lanka maintain profitability during periods of economic turbulence.

Legacy and Retirement:

Despite its technological achievements and operational success, the L-1011-500 began to face competition from more modern aircraft in the late 1990s, leading to a gradual phase-out. However, its legacy lives on, remembered for its role in pioneering aspects of aviation technology that are standard today.

The L-1011-500 remains a significant part of aviation history, particularly for Air Lanka. Its contribution to the development of long-haul travel and its technological innovations continue to influence aircraft design and operation in the airline industry. The Lockheed Tristar L-1011-500 is celebrated not just as a workhorse of its time but also as a symbol of aviation advancement.