The Lockheed L-188 Electra is a four engine turboprop airliner developed in the United States for short to medium range commercial passenger operations. Discover Lockheed L-188 Electra aircraft for sale worldwide on AvPay. Browse active Lockheed L-188 Electra listings and find available aircraft across the USA, North America, UK, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia and South America. Connect directly with aircraft brokers, private sellers, operators and aviation companies. Explore the full inventory of aircraft for sale on AvPay here!
Finding a Lockheed L-188 Electra for Sale on AvPay
AvPay offers a global marketplace for the Lockheed L-188 Electra, connecting buyers and sellers across the USA, North America, UK, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, South America and beyond. Discover available Lockheed L-188 Electra aircraft for sale in our growing online selection of classic turboprop airliners.
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Interesting facts about the Lockheed L-188 Electra
✈ Lockheed developed the L-188 Electra as a four engine turboprop airliner in the late 1950s to compete with early short haul jets while offering lower operating costs on medium range routes.
✈ The aircraft typically seats around 98 passengers in airline configuration and operates with a three person flight crew, reflecting its original commercial airline role.
✈ The Electra uses four Allison 501-D13 turboprop engines driving large diameter propellers, delivering strong take off performance from relatively short runways for its size.
✈ Early structural vibration issues led to a major engineering redesign program known as the LEAP modification, which strengthened the wing and engine mounts and restored airline confidence.
✈ The L-188C variant increased fuel capacity and maximum take off weight, giving operators extended range capability compared with the earlier L-188A.
✈ Several Electras were later converted into dedicated freighters under supplemental type certificates, making the type popular in cargo operations long after passenger service ended.
✈ The airframe formed the basis for the Lockheed P-3 Orion maritime patrol aircraft, highlighting the strength and adaptability of the original Electra design.
✈ Even decades after production ended, the Electra continued flying in specialist cargo and aerial firefighting roles thanks to its robust structure and powerful turboprop performance.
Model Variants for buyers to consider when purchasing a Lockheed L-188 Electra
The main production variants are the L-188A and the later L-188C. The L-188A represents the initial commercial passenger version, typically configured for around 98 passengers with a maximum take off weight of 113,000 lb. The L-188C introduced increased fuel capacity and a higher maximum take off weight of 116,000 lb, which improved range and payload flexibility for airlines operating longer sectors. In addition to factory variants, many aircraft were converted to freighter or passenger freight configurations under supplemental type certificates. For buyers, the distinction between an original passenger airframe and a cargo converted aircraft can significantly affect operating economics, interior condition and mission suitability.
Lockheed L-188 Electra Specifications
Information provided here is as a guide only. This information should not be used for flight planning or other aircraft operations. Aircraft model variations, custom specifications, modifications, upgrades and age will have a considerable impact on the details listed below. Please check with the seller, manufacturer or aviation authority for the precise aircraft specifications.
Crew: 3
Length: 31.85 m (104 ft 6 in)
Wingspan: 30.18 m (99 ft 0 in)
Height: 10.01 m (32 ft 10 in)
Empty Weight: 26,036 kg (57,400 lb)
Max Take Off Weight (MTOW): 51,256 kg (113,000 lb)
Fuel Capacity: 20,900 L (5,520 US gal)
Maximum Speed: 721 km/h (389 kn) at 12,000 ft
Cruise Speed: 600 km/h (324 kn)
Range: 3,500 km (1,900 nmi)
Service Ceiling: 8,400 m (28,400 ft)
Rate of Climb: 10.0 m/s (1,970 ft/min)
FAQs About the Lockheed L-188 Electra
How much does a Lockheed L-188 Electra cost?
As of the early 2020s, market listings for cargo converted Lockheed L-188 Electra aircraft have typically ranged from approximately $1,000,000 to $3,000,000 USD depending on total time, maintenance status, mission equipment and remaining structural life. Values vary significantly based on configuration and airworthiness.
What type of aircraft is the Lockheed L-188 Electra?
The Lockheed L-188 Electra is a four engine turboprop airliner designed for medium range commercial passenger service. Many surviving examples operate today in cargo or specialist roles rather than scheduled airline service.
How many passengers does the Lockheed L-188 Electra carry?
In standard airline configuration the L-188A typically seats around 98 passengers. Some operators used alternative layouts with different seat densities depending on route structure and airline requirements.
What engines power the Lockheed L-188 Electra?
The aircraft is powered by four Allison 501-D13 turboprop engines, each driving a large four bladed propeller. This configuration provides strong field performance and redundancy for commercial operations.
What roles does the Lockheed L-188 Electra serve today?
While originally built as a passenger airliner, most surviving aircraft operate in cargo transport or specialist missions. The robust airframe and turboprop efficiency make it suitable for freight and other demanding operations.
Get help buying a Lockheed L-188 Electra
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Sell your Lockheed L-188 Electra on AvPay
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Find Finance for buying a Lockheed L-188 Electra
Financing a Lockheed L-188 Electra requires lenders who understand legacy multi engine turboprop airliners and their maintenance programs. Specialist aviation finance providers can structure funding based on cargo conversion status, remaining structural life and engine program coverage. Buyers should prepare detailed maintenance records, engine cycle data and planned mission profiles to support underwriting. Our network can help you explore tailored solutions for acquiring a Lockheed L-188 Electra for commercial or specialist operations.
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Find Insurance for a Lockheed L-188 Electra
Insuring a Lockheed L-188 Electra involves careful assessment of hull value, operational role and crew experience on large turboprop aircraft. Underwriters will review maintenance status, structural modifications and the intended use such as cargo or specialist operations. Liability limits must reflect passenger or freight exposure depending on configuration. Working with experienced aviation insurance brokers helps ensure appropriate hull and liability coverage for a Lockheed L-188 Electra in today’s market.
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