UPDATE!
Thank you, for all your interesting comments on Jack Frye and his Lockheed Electra 12A. The whole saga has now come full circle. The full history of the plane can be found on this new page:
http://www.sedonalegendhelenfrye.com/page19The plane was indeed "officially," a TWA Flight Research Laboratory, NC-18137. But it served a dual purpose as an executive plane and was used regularly by Jack Frye, long serving-TWA President, (one of the original 3 founders) of TWA. The plane was purchased in 1937 by Continental, (former Varney Speedways.) It was used as a passenger transport for 3 years by Continental Airlines. TWA subsequently bought the plane in 1940 and sold it in 1945. The plane was named "Research." Jack was instrumental in maintaining a top-notch flight research program for TWA, (something close to his heart,) many of TWA's breakthroughs are still benefiting our modern day airlines. This plane, in beautiful condition and very much air-worthy, has recently sold. A dear friend of mine purchased it, (Ruth Richter, daughter of Paul Richter, Executive Vice-President, (also one of the three original founders,) of TWA. Paul regularly flew the Lockheed 12A NC-18137, "Research," as well. I recently flew in this marvelous Lockheed Electra over the southern California coast. An incredible experience I assure you! The plane is a wonderful testament to the glory days of air-travel. The engines just purred, never missing a beat! One of the highlights of my life!
In 1945, TWA obtained another plane which was also used as a Flight Research Laboratory/Executive Transport. This beautiful Lockheed, Serial number #2170, NC-33604, was a Lockheed Lodestar, Model 18. It was reserved for Jack Frye, who flew it frequently as an executive airliner, transporting many V.I.P.'s. Howard Hughes, too, used it, as well as Paul Richter, and many TWA test pilots. Where is the plane now? That remains to be discovered. Last heard of, it was owned by a company called (B and H Industries in Akron Ohio.) But even though the company and plane have vaporized...........I have hope, like the 12A, it will be re-discovered. Purchased and restored.
Please note Daniel Peterkin of Howard Aircraft, and Morton Salt Corp. (father founded) owned the plane from 1954 to about 1963.
Any comments will be appreciated.....
Thank you,
http://www.sedonalegendhelenfrye.comRandall Reynolds, author/webmaster for
"The Jack and Helen Frye Story!