Remarks: This Electra flew with American Airlines from 1960 to 1968, when it was sold to Lloyd Aereo Boliviano, before going to the FAB. I was told that, with them, it was once their "Air Force One," but those days are obviously far behind it now.
Remarks: Delivered new to JAL in 1954, this DC6B's final operator was the legendary Fri Reyes-alas now departed. Apart from the obvious absence of engines and any paint, the aircraft seemed to be in remarkably good condition. Just visible on the nose were the words "Equipado con radar."
Remarks: Incredibly, this C46 was being worked on when we visited La Paz, apparently with a view to it flying again, commercially. I hope these guys succeed.
Remarks: On its way to the dump, but still looking good in the FAB's colourful livery. Re the dark blue sky: I didn't use a filter, this airport is at 12,000+ feet.
Remarks: Taxiing out for takeoff with about 15 of our group of 20 on board, for a pleasure flight. I had declined the opportunity, having flown in a Friendship of Balair in 1969. Unfortunately, this aircraft crashed in July 2008, fortunately with no fatalities.
Remarks: It was tough to take this photo due to security measures. It was going to be my only time at El Alto Airport, plus had to wait until other arriving pax cleared my way as well as any handling personnel, so I stood on the ramp as long as I could before being kindly invited to mooooove away to the terminal. This beauty -you don't see 727s around too often anymore-, sporting its new color scheme, was the only machine on the ramp at the time and brought me from Cusco, Perú. Basic service, very friendly crew and a spectacular view of the Titikaka Lake as you fly into Bolivia.
Remarks: Preserved at the air force base here. I'm pretty sure its identity is not TAM-01, as there was an Electra on the field with this serial number.
Remarks: This aircraft once flew for the mighty Pan American, before finding its way to the well known South American airline Faucett, finally ending its days with Fri Reyes at La Paz.
Remarks: The name of Fri Reyes was once legendary amongst the meat-hauling airlines of La Paz. Alas, refrigerated lorries running along new roads put them all out of business and hence why this once smart aircraft is now on its way to becoming a wreck.
Remarks: there were 4 C-46 standing at SLLP. only one looked like it was actually flying, 2 were wrecks and one was probably flyable but had missing props.
