R5O-6 Lodestar

The Lockheed R5O-6, known as the Lodestar, was a twin‑engine transport aircraft that entered service in the late 1930s. Developed from the Model 14 Super Electra, the Lodestar combined a reinforced airframe with a spacious cabin, allowing it to carry up to eleven passengers or a mixed load of cargo and personnel. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney R-1830 radials delivering 1,050 horsepower each, the aircraft offered a cruising speed of roughly 225 mph and a range of 2,000 miles, making it suitable for both airline operations and military utility missions. The U.S. Army Air Corps designated the civilian version as the R5O‑6 and employed it for transport, liaison, and occasional ambulance duties during World War II. Its robust construction, reliable engines, and relatively simple maintenance contributed to a reputation for durability in harsh environments. The Lodestar’s versatility helped bridge the gap between early biplane transports and the larger four‑engine airliners that dominated the post‑war era, influencing subsequent Lockheed designs such as the Ventura and Constellation. Today, only a handful of airframes survive, serving as a testament to a pivotal transitional period in aviation history.

Lockheed Corporation

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