April 2009
First flown in 1936, the luxurious Executive was targeted to affluent buyers with only 36 produced. The brainchild of Spartan-founder William G. Skelly of Skelly Oil who desired a fast, comfortable aircraft to support his tastes and those of his rich oil-executive colleagues, the company ended up acquired by J. Paul Getty in 1935. Features included arm rests, ash trays, dome lighting, deep cushions, cabin heaters, ventilators, soundproofing, and large windows. In 1942, a total of 16 Executives saw military service with the United States Army Air Corps as executive transports for military staff. All but two survived to return to civil service. Nikon D70s w/35-70mm.