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Lockheed L1649A Starliner finally in her new home

Rand Airport’s hangar 17 was once again filled with aircraft technicians and South African Airways Museum Society members as Lockheed L1649A Starliner 'Connie' was lifted onto her feet.

The South African Airways Museum Society has been anticipating Lockheed L1649A Starliner’s arrival since her move to Rand Airport last year and the success of her recent assembly.

The long wait was over as Connie was finally lifted onto her feet last Friday with the assistance of Rand Airport, Intelek Training and Consultation (ITC) trainees and Phoebus Apollo Aviation.

Matt Harvey (project leader) and John Ikking were glad to be getting Lockheed L1649A Starliner Connie on her feet last Friday. Photo by:John Austin Williams.

ALSO READ: Rand Airport home to one of four Starliners in the world

Matt Harvey, who formed part of the original team planning the relocation project of the Starliner last year, was the project leader.

John Ikking, who was involved with the dismantling of the Starliner at Klein Kariba in May 1979, was also part of the team on the day.

Lockheed L1649A Starliner ‘Connie’ is lifted by two cranes at Rand Airport’s hangar 17. Photo by:John Austin Williams.

Rand Airport’s fire and rescue department were on standby at hangar 17 to ensure a smooth sailing event.

Connie was on her feet by close-of-business on Friday and successfully towed to the museum’s aircraft park last Monday.

The Lockheed L1649A Starliner carefully being lifted at Phoebus Apollo Aviation. Photo by:John Austin Williams.

ALSO READ: Flying fun at the Rand Airshow

Chairperson of the South African Airways Museum Society, John Austin Williams, thanked all stakeholders involved for their participation with a special mention to Phoebus Apollo Aviation for loaning them the tractor, and Chad van der Walt for being an efficient operator.

To learn more about the history of the Starliner visit www.saamuseum.co.za.

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Contact the newsroom by emailing: Melissa Hart (Editor) germistoncitynews@caxton.co.za or Leigh Hodgson (News Editor) leighh@caxton.co.za or Kgotsofalang Mashilo (journalist) kgotsofalangm@caxton.co.za

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