Viking

The Lockheed S-3 Viking is a jet that was used by the US Navy primarily for anti-submarine warfare.  Affectionately nicknamed the “War Hoover” for the vacuum-like sound of its turbofan engines, the carrier-based Viking saw service from the late 1970’s to the early 2000’s.  AeroPod #21, “Viking”, is dedicated to this versatile and highly respected all-weather aircraft, and was built for a retired pilot who spent more than 3000 hours flying one.

One of the first notable features of this AeroPod is its weathered, “Haze Gray” color scheme, which is used for combat aircraft to “minimize visual detectability”(client’s words).  Careful study of the actual aircraft’s skin revealed a pattern of lines and flush rivet details that were adapted to the pod’s shape and routed into the surface.  The numbers and insignia on the side correspond to those of the client’s squadron and call sign.

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As with other aircraft-themed AeroPods, the door was hand-shaped from one piece of aluminum and the acrylic window thermoformed to match it.  Inside, all gauges and housings on the instrument panel were made from scratch to resemble those found in the S-3’s cockpit.  Pressing a touch latch at the top of the panel releases a flap door, which gently lowers on an air piston and reveals the illuminated liquor cabinet within.   Under that, a crescent-shaped drawer pulls out into a lidded, Spanish cedar humidor for cigars and accessories.

Another notable feature of this rugged and well-used looking AeroPod can only be seen in reflection off its mirror base.  The S-3 Viking was equipped with sonar buoy ejecting tubes on its belly to locate submarines, so a small cluster of eight is rendered on the pod’s underside to reflect its purpose.  AeroPods are all about thoughtful details providing maximum emotional connection, and this is definitely one of them.  In fact, the entire AeroPod is like a dedication to the owner’s entire career as a Naval pilot, bringing back all the memories and experiences that went with it. 

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