GEMINI200 BRANIFF L188A 1/200 REG#N9709C (**)

GeminiJets 1/200 scale Braniff International Airways Lockheed L-188 Electra II diecast model is As Real as it Gets and measures approximately 6-3/16-inches long with a 5-13/16-inch wingspan. Manufactured by GeminiJets as a limited edition, highly collectible model, this Braniff International Airways Lockheed L-188 Electra II - Registration N9709C - has been meticulously recreated from Lockheed's blueprints and features realistic landing gear and detailed graphics, assuring the utmost accuracy and superior quality. A Display Stand is included.

After several attempts to launch a 4-engine airliner by Lockheed failed in the early to mid-1950's, an order for 35 L-188A Electras by American Airlines in June 1955 secured the start for this fine airplane. Shortly thereafter, an order came in in September 1955 for 40 aircraft for Eastern Air Lines. Powered by the same Allison 501-D engine as the already popular Lockheed C-130 military transport, the Electra was off to a good start and first flew in December 1957. Parallel to the Electra, the U.S. Navy saw huge potential in the aircraft and launched a military version of the type in the late 1950's, known as the P-3 Orion.

The Lockheed L-188 Electra is regarded as one of the best airframes ever made and enjoyed many years of flying right into the jet age. In fact, the Electra could outperform many early jets that were introduced to replace the Electra. The Electra would go on to serve many airlines well into the 1970's and 80's. With increasing fuel costs, the Electra's 4 powerful engines would eventually force its demise as a passenger aircraft, but its robust airframe gave it a new lease on life, and most Electras were subsequently converted into freighter planes.