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Jumpseat: Airliner Aficionados

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

Key Takeaways:

  • The author recounts his fascination with a meticulously restored vintage Eastern Air Lines DC-7B (N836D) he encountered at Key West Airport.
  • The article chronicles N836D's journey from being an airport monument for 32 years to its rescue and intensive restoration by aviation enthusiasts Carlos Gomez and Marc Wolff.
  • These individuals founded the nonprofit Historical Flight Foundation (HFF) to own and operate N836D, ensuring this piece of aviation history remains actively flying with a dedicated team, rather than being relegated to a static display.
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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.

Les Abend

Les Abend is a retired, 34-year veteran of American Airlines, attempting to readjust his passion for flying airplanes in the lower flight levels—without the assistance of a copilot.

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