Page 27 - Volume 16 Number 2

on the ramp outside, arguably the finest widebody jetliner of its day. The L-1011’s three huge RB.211 turbofans carried it to international destinations while the passengers strolled in twin-aisle spaciousness. TWA’s TriStar crews loved its autoland capability and redundant systems, insisting that it was built far better than competing designs.
When visiting the museum, it would be a mistake not to stop across the field at Signature Aviation’s first- class FBO facility, which is a working bit of airline history in its own right. The Signature building was once TWA’s offices, and the upstairs corner room was where Howard Hughes once looked out at the comings and goings of his airline’s fleet, while the maintenance crews worked on the triple-tailed Constellations in the shops below.
The National Airline History Museum is open six days a week, except for holidays, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (allow
ample time for touring if arriving late). Bookings are available for group tours and aviation-theme parties. Because these occasional special events may require an early closing time for drop- in visitors, a confirming phone call is always advisable. The Museum is reached by taking the Broadway Avenue bridge to cross the Missouri River from Kansas City’s downtown district. If flying in, ask to park at Hangar 9, on the southwest corner of MKC airport, where the L-10ll is clearly visible. The entrance fee is a nominal $10, with military and senior discounts, and groups are given special consideration. T&T
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Information:
National Airline History Museum, 201 Northwest Lou Holland Drive, Kansas City, MO 64116-4223, phone (816) 421-3401, fax
(816) 421-3421, www.AHMhangar.com
FEBRUARY 2012
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