Minicraft Model Aircraft 1/144 L188 Electra US Turbo-Prop Airliner Kit

The Lockheed L-188 Electra was first flown in 1957. It was the first large turboprop airliner built in the United States. The four-engined design had airfield performance capabilities unmatched by many jet transport aircraft even today—particularly on short runways and high field elevations. Lockheed had established a strong position in commercial airliner production with its piston-engined Constellation series. The final design was launched as the Model 188 with an order for 35 by American Airlines on June 8, 1955, followed by an Eastern Airlines order for 40 on September 27, 1955. The first aircraft took 26 months to complete and by that time Lockheed had orders for 129. The prototype, a Model 188A, first flew on December 6, 1957.  Turboprops were soon replaced by turbojets and many Electras were modified as freighters. Some Electras are still being used in various roles into the 21st century.  The airframe was also used as the basis for the Lockheed P-3 Orion maritime patrol aircraft.