Convair CV-440 Metropolitan

The Convair CV-440 Metropolitan was the final piston-engined version of the Convairliner family, a development of the CV-340. The family article says Convair produced it in 1954 in an attempt to compete with turboprop airliners such as the Vickers Viscount. It had more streamlined engine cowlings, new exhausts and better cabin soundproofing than the 340, an option for weather radar and a maximum weight raised to 49,700 pounds. A rearranged cabin could seat 52 passengers instead of 44, marked by an extra cabin window, and Swissair, Lufthansa and SAS took that option. Finnair flew the type from 1956 until 1980, and the Brooklyn Dodgers owner Walter O'Malley bought one in 1957 to carry the team. Kelowna Flightcraft Air Charter, the main remaining operator, holds the type certificate.