Archival photograph of Tupolev Tu-144S CCCP-77102 (airframe 01-2) flying overhead at the 1973 Paris Air Show. This aircraft was tragically lost in a crash during the event.
Photo by Stuart H Bourne
© Stuart H Bourne / Quality Aviation Photos International.
This archival photograph captures the Tupolev Tu-144S “01-2” CCCP-77102 (construction number 01-2) in flight over Le Bourget during the 1973 Paris Air Show. The image shows the aircraft overhead in a demonstration pass, highlighting its delta wing configuration and forward canards—hallmarks of Soviet supersonic design.
CCCP-77102 was the second Tu-144 airframe built and the first Tu-144S production variant. Operated by Aeroflot, it was selected for public display and flight demonstration to showcase the USSR’s supersonic transport program. Tragically, this aircraft broke apart mid-flight on June 3, 1973, crashing into the town of Goussainville and killing six crew members and eight civilians on the ground.
This photograph documents the aircraft in flight shortly before the accident, offering a rare view of its airborne profile and aerodynamic features. CCCP-77102 remains one of the most historically significant Tu-144 airframes.
