The “Hurricane Hunter” – NOAA Lockheed WP-3D
With a lineage dating back to the the 98-passenger Lockheed L-188 Electra that first flew in 1957, the WP-3D is one of two examples operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to collect weather information. These aircraft conduct meteorological, oceanographic and environmental research around the world, and are known for performing observations in and around hurricanes. In addition to utilizing the advanced radar equipment housed in the bulbous fairings, the WP-3D also has the capability of dropping expendable dropsondes – small GPS-equipped sensors that collect and transmit data as they fall through the atmosphere. Photo: Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum
Topics Related To: AVIATION HISTORY
Piper Cub Catapult Takeoff
An industrious aircraft salesman develops a system of elastic bands to launch his Piper Cub from small clearings, enabling operation from his backyard.
Pan Am Helicopter Transfer
A ramp view of passengers transferring between an airliner and a helicopter for quick and easy access to Manhattan.
Airport Design: The Tangential Runway Concept
A novel airport design concept emerged in the 1940s, promising speed and efficiency, but ultimately failed to overcome regulatory and operational realities.
