1932 Lockheed Vega Model 5 Die-Cast

The Lockheed Vega was designed and engineered by John K. Northrop in 1927. The construction of the over 27 foot long fuselage is deceptively simple in design and was a key in the transition from frame and fabric to the aluminum monocoque design still used today. Innovation engineering was also used for the cantilevered single high wing. The Vega was also among the first planes to use a drag reducing engine crowl. It was advanced engineering ideas, such as these, that made the Vega an overwhelming success.