Lockheed C-69 Constellation

The Lockheed C-69 Constellation was the military transport version of the famous Lockheed Constellation series, produced for the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Developed from the civilian L‑049, the C‑69 first flew in 1942 and entered service in 1943, providing a long‑range, high‑speed cargo and personnel carrier. Powered by four Wright R‑3350 Duplex‑Cyclone radial engines delivering 2,200 hp each, the aircraft could cruise above 300 mph and attain a ceiling of 25 000 feet, a remarkable performance for its era. Its sleek, triple‑tail design and pressurized fuselage allowed operations at high altitude, reducing weather exposure and fuel consumption. Although only 22 C‑69s were completed before the war ended, the type demonstrated the viability of large, four‑engine transports and directly influenced the post‑war L‑749 and L‑1049 commercial models that reshaped trans‑Atlantic air travel. The C‑69 also served as a testbed for innovations such as de‑icing boots, improved navigation equipment, and crew‑comfort features that set new standards. Its legacy lies in bridging wartime logistics needs with the advent of modern, pressurized airliners, cementing Lockheed’s reputation as a pioneer in advanced aeronautical engineering.

Lockheed Corporation

Lockheed C-69 Constellation

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Design & Classification