Jumpseat: Airliner Aficionados

Les Abend

Tuesday, August 02, 2011 at 01:49 AM ET

Verified

** N836D was originally delivered to Eastern
Airlines in January 1958.**

Key Takeaways:

The author encountered and toured a beautifully restored vintage DC-7B (N836D) at Key West, which previously served Eastern Air Lines before sitting derelict for 32 years.
The aircraft was acquired in 2003 by Carlos Gomez and Marc Wolff, who, along with Roger Jarman, spearheaded its meticulous restoration to flying status at Opa-locka.
N836D was donated to the non-profit Historical Flight Foundation (HFF), enabling it to operate under special FAA regulations for revenue passenger flights and preserve aviation heritage.
The article highlights the dedication of individuals and volunteers who passionately work to keep classic airplanes like the DC-7B flying, ensuring that this significant piece of aviation history is not merely confined to museums.

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(August 2011) As I rolled through the security gate at the GA side of the Key West Airport, I glanced toward the ramp area reserved for corporate jets and larger equipment. I caught a glimpse of the tail and upper fuselage of a hulking airplane as it taxied to a parking spot. Even with my windows closed, there was no mistaking the throaty rumble of four round engines. A Harley couldn’t compete.

The airplane was a DC-6. Nope … wait … wrong. It was a DC-7B. And it was painted with the 1950s logo of Eastern Air Lines. Way cool. The airliner had flown in from Miami’s Opa-locka Airport. Its passengers had paid for a vintage airplane ride and a day in Key West. Very classy.