Convair 990A Coronado Swissair HB-ICC

Convair 990A Coronado Swissair
Product Details

• The Convair 990A Coronado is an American narrow-body, four-engined jet airliner developed by the Convair division of General Dynamics. It was produced between 1961 and 1963. This aircraft met American Airlines’ request for a jet capable of faster coast-to-coast flights. The 990A, an improved version of the earlier Convair 990 Coronado, had enhancements such as fairings on the engine nacelles to reduce drag. Although it did not fully meet American Airlines’ performance expectations, Swissair became a notable operator. As the national airline of Switzerland, Swissair incorporated the 990A into its fleet for long-range flights. Consequently, it served destinations including South America, West Africa, and the Middle East. Moreover, the aircraft’s advanced design and speed capabilities suited Swissair’s needs. This allowed them to offer competitive and efficient services on these routes. Despite its relatively short production period, the Convair 990A Coronado remains a significant part of aviation history. Its unique combination of speed, design, and versatility made it an interesting chapter in the evolution of commercial jet airliners. Thus, this highlights both its engineering achievements and the challenges it faced in the competitive airline industry.