Convair CV880/990, A jet classic.

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   The last in the trio of 4 engined jets from the USA in the late 50s and 60s. The Convair 880/990series was never built in as large numbers as the B707 and DC-8 rivals. They were also hampered by their 5 abreast seating as opposed to the usual 6. this made seat miles more expensive and consequently more expensive to operate, they were however extremely fast and more than one aircraft hit mach 1 accidentally. The CV880 was succeeded in service by the larger CV990, this aircraft introduced large fairings on the wings to counter a stability problem found on the earlier aircraft, they also doubled as fuel tanks. However never able to compete with the ever evolving Boeing and Douglas aircraft only around 30 were sold. A great shame for what was essentially a very good aircraft. Several of both types are still serving around the world, mainly in South America..... 
CV880

CV990 (also known as the Corronado)

thanks for veiwing