This was the prototype of the L-649, the first true airliner model of the Connie, first flown as NX101A on 18 October 1946. It entered service with Eastern Air Lines as NC101A in October 1947 - not the first example to be delivered. Eastern was the only airline to operate the L-649 as it was quickly superseded by the L-749. Photo by: Ralph Morse / Life

Registration already repainted as N108A from NC108A. Photo probably taken in Atlanta. Photo by: Ralph Morse / Life

The early Constellations were often volume-restricted rather than weight-restricted. The Speedpak cargo pannier was developed at the request of Eastern Air Lines. It reduced speed by 10 mph and range by 4%. It was electrically lowered for unloading or for removal as it was typically used on shorter flights - note that the unit wears an individual number, 14, and does not belong to the airframe. Eastern actually ordered 14 Speedpaks initially and KLM seven. Photo by: Ralph Morse / Life

NC108A was delivered to Eastern on 17 July 1947. Modified to L-749A standard in 1950. Wears "The Great Silver Fleet" logo on rear upper fuselage. Sold in January 1961. From EAL 60 years ago.