DC-8 for California Museum of Science and Industry

• Posted By: Scott Harrison
• Posted On: 12:20 a.m. | September 14, 2012

June 18, 1984: An old United Airlines DC-8 is towed into Exposition Park at the southwest corner of Exposition Boulevard and Figueroa Street about 5:15 a.m. The jet, minus its wings and tail assembly, was towed along city streets from Long Beach. The nighttime trip took six hours.

Once at Exposition Park, the DC-8, nicknamed the City of Los Angeles, was reassembled and put on display at the California Museum of Science and Industry — now the California Science Center. When flying for United Airlines, the DC-8 traveled 18 million miles and carried 1 million passengers.

In 2002, the aircraft was moved and placed on a pedestal overlooking the new entrance to the California Science Center.

The California Science Center will soon receive the retired Space Shuttle Endeavour.

This photo by retired staff photographer George Fry was page one lead art in the June 19, 1984, Los Angeles Times.

May 15, 1985: With the DC-8 as a backdrop, Ken Groat and his stepdaughter Ann Whittemore view exhibits at the California Museum of Science and Industry, now the California Science Center. This photo was published in the May 16,1985, Los Angeles Times. Credit: Tony Barnard / Los Angeles Times

Nov. 3, 1984: Visitors get a closeup view of the landing gear of the DC-8 on display at the California Museum of Science and Industry, now the California Science Center. This photo was published in the Nov. 11, 1984, L.A. Times. Credit: Marsha Traeger / Los Angeles Times