Introduction to Lockheed L-1649A Starliner Restoration
Lufthansa Technik has achieved a significant milestone in aviation history with the restoration of the vintage Lockheed L-1649A Starliner, known affectionately as the ‘Super Star’. This aircraft, initially introduced to the Lufthansa fleet in 1957, symbolized the pinnacle of luxury air travel, featuring the exclusive Senator class. It notably pioneered non-stop transatlantic travel between Germany and New York, heralding a new era with its four piston engines capable of enduring flights lasting up to 17 hours.
The restoration project, managed by Lufthansa Super Star GmbH (LSSG), a subsidiary established by the Lufthansa Group in 2015, aimed to return this iconic aircraft to its former glory. Despite facing financial challenges that halted its flight readiness restoration in 2018, LSSG committed to maintaining the aircraft in a high-quality static display condition. This commitment involved relocating the Starliner from Auburn, Maine to Hamburg, Germany, where it was meticulously reassembled by a dedicated team of engineers.
Detailed Restoration Efforts
The restoration work has been extensive, with the aircraft now fully reassembled and standing on its own landing gear. The larger components such as the fuselage, wings, and the distinctive triple tail structure, along with 292 crates of smaller parts, arrived at the Lufthansa Technik facility in Hamburg in October 2023. Since then, engineers have carefully reconstructed the aircraft, ensuring every detail is perfect, from fully functioning lighting and flight controls connected by steel cables to movable rudders and flaps.
The cockpit has been restored to its 1957 condition, providing an authentic look at the aircraft’s original operations. The passenger cabin, while retaining much of its 1950s charm, has been updated slightly for modern sensibilities. The original seats were replaced with seats from a retired Lufthansa A340, which have been extensively redesigned and upholstered in wine-red leather, complemented by vintage print fabrics for the curtains and carpets, maintaining the aesthetic of the era.
Unveiling and Future Plans
The painstaking restoration culminated in the rollout of the aircraft from the Lufthansa Technik hangar in Hamburg on January 17, 2025, to the applause of hundreds of enthusiasts, supporters, and employees. The next steps involve dismantling the aircraft into larger segments for transportation to Münster/Osnabrück Airport in July 2025, where it will be repainted in the vintage 1950s-era Lufthansa colors. Following this, the aircraft is scheduled to arrive in Frankfurt in October 2025.
Looking ahead, the Lockheed Super Star, alongside the legendary Lufthansa Junkers Ju 52 D-AQUI, will be a centerpiece at the new Lufthansa Group conference and visitor center, set to open in spring 2026. This timing is significant as it coincides with the 100th anniversary of Lufthansa’s founding. The new facility, featuring a glass façade, will allow these historic aircraft to be admired from both inside and outside, serving as a testament to Lufthansa’s rich heritage in aviation.