The iconic Lockheed L-1649A Super Star, a symbol of 1950s aviation luxury and innovation, is closer to being fully restored. Lufthansa Technik recently reached a significant milestone on January 17, 2024, when the restored aircraft rolled out of its hangar in Hamburg on its landing gear.
The restoration process for the Lockheed Super Star began in October 2023, when Lufthansa Technik received major components, including the fuselage, wings, and distinctive triple tail unit, along with 292 crates of smaller parts. Careful assembly was required to reassemble the aircraft at the facility in Hamburg, which held historical importance as the Super Star’s maintenance hub during its operational years.
A highlight of the restoration is the cockpit, designed to remain faithful to the 1950s era. The lighting and controls are functional, while cable mechanisms operate the rudders and flaps, showcasing the engineering ingenuity of that time.
Historical Context and Design
The Lockheed Super Star, introduced in 1957, played a pivotal role in Lufthansa’s transatlantic operations, offering non-stop flights to New York. These flights, lasting up to 17 hours, also marked the introduction of the airline’s exclusive Senator class.
To preserve its vintage appeal, the restored Super Star’s interior reflects the style of the 1950s, but with modern adaptations. Seats sourced from a retired Lufthansa A340 were reupholstered in wine-red leather, while carpets and curtains replicate historical patterns to maintain authenticity.
In the coming weeks, the aircraft will be dismantled into large sections to facilitate transport to Münster/Osnabrück Airport in July 2024. At this location, it will be repainted in Lufthansa’s original “Parabola” livery before its final move to Frankfurt in October 2024.
The Lockheed Super Star will become a centerpiece at Lufthansa Group’s new conference and visitor center, scheduled to open in spring 2026. The facility, part of Lufthansa’s 100th-anniversary celebrations, will also feature the historic Junkers Ju 52 D-AQUI. A glass façade will allow visitors to admire these preserved aircraft from both inside and outside the center.
