An important chapter in aviation history is returning: Lufthansa Technik presented the final roll-out of an elaborately restored Lockheed L-17A Super Star in Hamburg on January 2025, 1649. This long-haul aircraft, which was considered a technical masterpiece in the late 1950s, will in future be part of an exhibition commemorating the golden age of propeller aircraft.
The Lockheed Super Star joined the Lufthansa fleet in 1957 and set standards in transatlantic air travel. With its ability to fly non-stop from Germany to New York, it significantly reduced travel times and offered the exclusive Senator class on board for the first time. Equipped with four powerful piston engines, it was one of the last large propeller aircraft before the jet era began.
The Lockheed L-1649A is historically anchored above all in Hamburg, where Lufthansa's maintenance base was once located. This symbolic connection made the roll-out at Lufthansa Technik's headquarters a special event.
A technical challenge
The restoration of the Lockheed Super Star was a task of considerable complexity. Since October 2023, Lufthansa Technik teams have been working on assembling several major components, including the fuselage, wings and the distinctive triple tail unit. A total of 292 wooden boxes containing smaller components were delivered, which had to be precisely assembled.
Particular attention was paid to the cockpit, which was restored to its original 1950s condition. Functioning lighting, control elements and movable cables that operate the rudders and flaps demonstrate the engineering skills of this era and make the aircraft an impressive example of historical technology.
onward journey to Münster/Osnabrück
Although the aircraft is not airworthy, it will be dismantled into segments again in the coming months to prepare for transport to Münster/Osnabrück Airport, where it will be painted in the "Parabola Phase" design, a striking color scheme used by Lufthansa in the 1950s.
In addition to the exterior restoration, the interior is also being extensively redesigned. The cabin is based on the style of the 1950s, but combines historical looks with modern technology. The seats, originally from a decommissioned Lufthansa A340, have been reworked and covered in wine-red leather, while carpets and curtains are based on historical patterns.
final exhibition in Frankfurt
After the restoration work is completed, the Lockheed Super Star will be transported to Frankfurt in October 2025, where it will be exhibited in the Lufthansa Group's new visitor and conference center from spring 2026. This center, which will open on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the founding of Lufthansa, will also house the legendary Junkers Ju 52 D-AQUI. Both aircraft will be presented as central exhibits in a glass hall, allowing them to be admired both inside and out.
By restoring the Lockheed Super Star, Lufthansa is creating an important cultural and technical monument that honors both the history of civil aviation and its own historical contribution to the development of global air transport.
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