This glistening, low wing, monoplane was the first twin engine built by Lockheed. Also the first all metal airplane, the C-40 (model 12-A) was the fastest transport airplane in the world.
It could out-climb and out-fly any other twin, it handled nicely, had power to spare and pilots liked to fly it.
Night crossings and poor terrain were restricted to twin aircraft in 1934, this created a need for the new Electra. Big and small businesses like the advantage of landing in many small town airports.
Many options were offered including: autopilot, partitions, plush seats, couch, lavatory, desk and typewriter.
The most famous 10E Electra was purchased by Purdue University, for Amelia Earhart. She and the airplane vanished July 3, 1937 during her around the world flight.
DISPLAY STATUS | COUNTRY OF ORIGIN | CURRENT LOCATION |
---|---|---|
Own | United States | Starfighter Hangar |
PURPOSE & TYPE | MATERIALS | ERA & DATE RANGE |
Transport | Steel | World War II 1939 – 1945 |
PRODUCTION & ACQUISITION |
SPECIFICATIONS | SERVICE HISTORY |
MFG: Lockheed Aircraft Corporation First Produced: 1936 Number Built: 130 total; 10 UC-40As Armament: None This UC-40A was obtained by Yanks in 1998 and its restoration was completed in 2006. |
Wingspan: 49’6” Wing Area: 352 sq ft Length: 36’4” Height: 9’9” Empty Weight: 5,960 lbs Gross Weight: 8,650 lbs Powerplant: (2) P/W R-985-1 Horsepower: 400 lbs each Cruise Speed: 213 mph Maximum Speed: 230 mph Range: 950 miles |
Delivered: Feb 22, 1939 – Kelley Field, TX
Mar 1938 – Barksdale Field, LA |