The Boeing 377 Stratocruiser was a premier long range post-WWII four engine airliner that was introduced to airlines in 1949. Pan Am was the launch customer, ordering 20 Stratocruisers.

The Stratocruiser was beloved by both flight crews and passengers for its innovative design and comfort features. Its spacious cabin provided an unmatched level of luxury, including sleeping berths for long-haul comfort. The aircraft also offered separate men's and ladies' dressing rooms, catering to the era's sensibilities.

A lower-level lounge was a unique feature of this airliner as well as a pressurized and air-conditioned cabin. It cruised at 325mph and its range was 4200 miles, allowing for long transoceanic flights. The 377's Wasp Major supercharged piston engines were the most powerful radial engines produced at the time. However, the complex nature of these engines also meant they demanded extensive maintenance, and their operation led to some crashes.

With these DVDs, you can experience flight in one of the premier post World War II airliners - the Boeing 377 Stratocruiser. Put yourself in the cockpit and the passenger cabin of the Stratocruiser during the 1950s. Visit the 377's lower-level lounge which was not to be duplicated until the late 1960s with the advent of the 747 jetliner.

The Stratocruiser was eventually retired due to advancements in aviation technology and the emergence of more efficient aircraft. By the 1960s, newer planes with improved performance, such as turboprops, were available, offering airlines better fuel efficiency and modern features.

The Lockheed Electra, a state-of-the-art turboprop aircraft, replaced the Stratocruiser. With its advanced technology and enhanced capabilities, the Electra quickly became the preferred choice for airlines transitioning from older models to modern fleets.