A fabulous photo of Qantas Empire Airways (QEA) Lockheed L749-79 Constellation VH-EAB Lawrence Hargrave (c/n 2565) in flight. Beneath its belly is a 'Speedpak' cargo pod. Powered by four 2500 hp Wright R3350-C18BD1 Cyclones, these aircraft operated with a crew of 10 and up to 38 passengers. Cruising speed was approximately 300 mph.

VH-EAB was acquired by Qantas on 22 October 1947 and served until it was disposed of to BOAC on 26 February 1955. It is seen here in the pre-1952 mainly polished-metal colour scheme with dark blue trim and red QEA titles.

The Constellations were used to open through services on the Kangaroo Route from Australia to England in 1947 - click here to see an air mail cover flown on the inaugural service.

(Photo: CAHS collection)

Click here to see a photo of a Qantas L1049 Super Connie VH-EAD

These posters were produced to promote QEA's Constellation services.

Click on the images to see larger versions.

(Posters: Qantas)