Toulouse. The Flight of the Pioneers wants to rebuild a mythical plane
The Flight of the Pioneers is launching a project that should attract the attention of aviation lovers: the reconstruction of a legendary Aéropostale plane, the Laté 28.
Notice to aviation lovers. The Flight of the Pioneers is embarking on a project described as unprecedented. The Toulouse museum which illustrates the adventure of the Aéropostale will rebuild a life-size replica of a mythical plane, the Latécoèire 28or Laté 28 for friends.
This aircraft with a wingspan of 19 meters was put into service in 1929. It is considered one of the first modern airliners. It was made famous for its use on postal links between France and South America. It was first operated by Aéropostale then Air France. The aircraft was also available in a seaplane version with floats. It was with this model that the aviator Jean Mermoz first managed to cross the South Atlantic with mail on May 12, 1930.
A five-year project for the Flight of Pioneers
The pilots affectionately nicknamed it “the miracle of the wolves”. in reference to a successful film, released in 1924. His real qualities made people think that he could save the Aéropostale company, in full financial turmoil.
The reconstruction of Laté 28, on the very spot where it was built a hundred years ago, is one in five projects for the Envol des pioneers. The idea is to highlight the technological and professional sectors through partnerships with the vocational and technological high schools of the Toulouse academy. Their mission will be to produce new parts for the aircraft by combining historical know-how and current technologies.
Several partners are involved. For example, the association Le Cercle des Machines Volantes has an access permit to documents and plans allowing an identical reconstruction.