Model 9A Orion Special

The Lockheed Model 9A Orion Special was introduced in 1931 as a high‑performance, single‑engine, low‑wing monoplane that built on the success of the earlier Model 9 Orion. Developed during the Golden Age of aviation, the 9A featured an enlarged fuselage, increased fuel capacity, and a more powerful 650‑horsepower Wright R‑1820 Cyclone radial engine, allowing a maximum speed of 210 mph and a range exceeding 1,200 miles. Its retractable landing gear—a novelty at the time—reduced drag and contributed to the aircraft’s reputation for speed and efficiency. The Orion Special’s sleek, all‑metal construction and enclosed cockpit set new standards for passenger comfort and aerodynamic refinement, making it popular with airlines and record‑setting pilots alike. Notably, Amelia Earhart flew a 9A on a transcontinental flight in 1932, and several aircraft were used for long‑distance mail and cargo routes across the United States. The model’s combination of power, range, and advanced features marked a turning point in commercial aviation, demonstrating that a single‑engine aircraft could safely compete with multi‑engine transports. Its legacy influenced subsequent Lockheed designs, paving the way for the iconic Model 10 Electra and later twin‑engine airliners.