The time I finally had a good idea!

[cpa]

So earlier today, i was reading about the development of the L1011 Tristar and learned that one of the reasons it exists is because of American airlines, though American eventually ditched Lockheed for Douglas. That got me thinking, what if? What if American went through with their plans to purchase Tristars instead of DC-10s? What do you guys over at HJG Think?

[aerofoto - HJG Admin]

The DC-10 evolved from an AA specification for a twin engine trans-conmtinental aircraft .... and which ultimately emerged as a tri-jet with both LOCKHEED and McDONNELL-DOUGLAS contending for the same market.

A number of airlines (including AIR NEW ZEALAND) entertained the L-1011 concept for a while .... but .... then came the LOCKHEED and RR crisis' which, at that stage, seemed to throw some doubt over the future L-1011 program .... especially in regard to the viability of later heavier and longer ranging versions of the aircraft.

Consequently .... given the degree of uncertainty which "seemed" evident early within these crisis' .... some airlines (including AIR NEW ZEALAND) eventually opted to go the DC-10 way .... and which, for most, was a very good/the better choice despite the L-1011 being as is/was.

Matk C
AKL/NZ