The reconstruction of a 'Parisian Spécial' lounge. -

Published by Thierry Larmier at 1 June 2023

Reconstitution du petit salon du Parisien Spécial. Quatre fauteuils standards du Super Constellation face à face avec au milieu une table en bois d’environ 1m50 par 1m avec deux parties rabattables côté sièges. Le table comporte deux essences de bois , un premier rectangle en bois foncé et une bordure d’environ 10 cm en bois plus clair. La base du pied de la table est en acier chromé de forme ronde. Le pied conique s’évase vers le haut, il est d'aspect plaqué bois clair. Au dessus, trône un triptyque avec dans sa partie centrale une représentation de Notre dame, à gauche une vue sur les bouquinistes sur les quais de seine et à droite les quais de scènes avec une péniche.

Reconstitution-Petit-Salon

The F-BGNJ joined the Air France fleet in 1953 in a standard configuration of 40 passengers plus 8 lounges. It was reconfigured to high density in 1961 with 87 seats. In the 1950s, the golden age of piston-engine civil aviation, Air France introduced a luxury version on November 19, 1953, called the 'Parisien Spécial' F-BGNI. This aircraft operated the Paris - New York route. It could accommodate 32 passengers, distributed over 16 seats and 8 compartments with 2 seats each, which could be transformed into a double bed.

Drawing depicting an exploded view of the Super Constellation type 'Parisien Spécial.' Towards the front, there is a private space for the navigator and a chair that can be transformed into a bed for the crew. Next, separated by a partition, are 8 seats that can be reclined. A partition. Then, 2 toilets. In the middle, there are 8 compartments with 2 seats each that can be transformed into private rooms, separated by partitions and curtains along the aisle. Then, 2 small lounges, each with a game table and two chairs. After a partition, there is a kitchen space and then a new area with 8 seats. Towards the rear, there are toilets.

Exploded view of "Parisien Spécial"

The 'Parisien Spécial' is operated by Air France with Constellations equipped at the front with a lounge. This lounge consists of two sofa benches installed facing each other, replacing the first two rows of port-side front seats. These two benches are separated by a table that can be transformed into a game table and equipped with ashtrays and glass holders. The upholstery is in leather. The surround is made of varnished lemon wood, harmonizing with the interior of the cabin. The whole assembly is mounted on rails like the seats. This arrangement, designed by the Orly Engineering Office, allows passengers to move during long non-stop flights." (excerpt from Avia techno)

Unfortunately, there are no more Super Constellations in this configuration. The Super Constellation Enthusiasts Club has decided to create a permanent exhibition in the F-BGNJ that gives our visitors a glimpse of the luxury of that era. This exhibition revolves around two major pieces. The first is a mural from the salon of a 'Parisien Spécial,' acquired in 2013 by the Club, depicting Notre-Dame de Paris and the Île de la Cité. To our knowledge, it is the only one in the world still in good condition. The second piece is the reconstruction of the gaming table by Guy Vandenbussche, a member of the association, assisted by some other active members. Doesn't this little lounge invite you to come and sit down and start a game of poker or bridge?