Time Period: Interwar Period
Country of Origin: United States
Type: General Purpose Aircraft (Utility), Transporter Aircraft
Manufacturer: Lockheed Corporation
Lockheed Model 12 Electra Junior
Aircraft Overview
The Lockheed Model 12 Electra Junior was a small, twin-engine transport aircraft that was produced by the Lockheed Corporation in the 1930s. It was a smaller version of the more well-known Lockheed Electra and was designed to be a fast, efficient aircraft for business and personal travel.
The Model 12 Electra Junior featured a streamlined, all-metal fuselage and was powered by two Pratt & Whitney Wasp engines, which gave it a top speed of around 200 miles per hour. The aircraft was also known for its relatively long range, which made it popular with wealthy individuals, businesses, and government agencies.
Several examples of the Model 12 Electra Junior remain in operation today, both as museum pieces and private ownership.
A Short History of the Lockheed 12 Electra
The Lockheed 12 Electra, also known as the Lockheed Model 12 or L-12, first took to the skies in June 1936.
The development of the Lockheed 12 Electra was a response to market demands for a smaller, more economical aircraft than its predecessor, the Lockheed Electra Model 10.
The L-12 featured a low-wing configuration, retractable landing gear, and twin Pratt & Whitney R-985 Wasp Junior radial engines, each producing 450 horsepower. These design elements contributed to the aircraft’s impressive performance, including a cruising speed of around 225 mph and a range of approximately 800 miles.
Operational History
Upon its introduction, the Lockheed 12 Electra quickly gained popularity among corporate customers, private owners, and smaller regional airlines. Its reliability and advanced features made it a favorite for executive transport and short-haul commercial flights. Additionally, the L-12 found a niche in government and military use.
During World War II, many Model 12s were requisitioned for military service, serving as liaison, transport, and training aircraft for various Allied forces.
One of the most notable uses of the Lockheed 12 was by the Dutch airline KLM, which employed the aircraft on European routes. The British Royal Air Force and the United States Army Air Forces also operated several Model 12s, designated as the C-40 in U.S. military service.
Lockheed Model 12 Electra Specifications
- Crew: 2
- Capacity: 6 passengers
- Length: 36 ft 4 in (11.07 m)
- Wingspan: 49 ft 6 in (15.09 m)
- Height: 9 ft 9 in (2.97 m)
- Wing area: 352 sq ft (32.7 m2)
- Empty weight: 5,765 lb (2,615 kg)
- Gross weight: 8,400 lb (3,810 kg)
- Max takeoff weight: 8,650 lb (3,924 kg)
- Powerplant: 2 × Pratt & Whitney R-985 Wasp Junior SB 9-cylinder air-cooled radial engines, 450 hp (340 kW) each
Lockheed Model 12 Electra Performance
- Maximum speed: 225 mph (362 km/h, 196 kn) at 5,000 ft (1,500 m)
- Cruise speed: 213 mph (343 km/h, 185 kn)
- Range: 800 mi (1,300 km, 700 nmi)
- Service ceiling: 22,900 ft (7,000 m)
- Rate of climb: 1,400 ft/min (7.1 m/s)
Lockheed Model 12 Electra Junior Image Gallery
Explore a curated collection of photographs showcasing the sleek design, elegant lines, and various operational roles of the Lockheed 12 Electra. From its early days as a pioneering executive transport to its distinguished service during World War II, these images capture the essence of an aircraft that left a lasting mark on aviation history.
