Lockheed L-188 Electra

The Lockheed L-188 Electra first flew in 1957, and was the first turboprop airliner built in the USA. It delivered performance only slightly inferior to that of a full jet aircraft, at a lower operating cost.

The early Electras suffered from a series of catastrophic crashes where their overpowered engines tore their wings off in flight, forcing a redesign of the aircraft in the early 1960's.

Almost every airline in the US flew Electras, but the only European airline to order the type was KLM: Britain's airlines used the Vickers Viscount.

The Electras flew in commercial service until the mid-1970's, when many were sold to the United States Navy for use as P-3 Orion anti-submarine aircraft. Others were retired into air cargo use. A total of 144 L-188's were built.

Passengers: 99 to 127

Engines: Four Allison turboprop engines, rated for 3,750 hp

Cruise Speed: 390 mph (620 kph)

Ceiling: 28,400 ft (9,500 m)

Range: 2,200 mi (3,500 km)