Archival photograph of Tupolev Tu-144S CCCP-77102 (airframe 01-2) on static display 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) on static exhibit at the 1973 Paris Air Show held at Le Bourget Airport. As the second Tu-144 airframe built and the first Tu-144S production variant, CCCP-77102 was a centerpiece of Soviet aerospace ambition during the Cold War.
Operated by Aeroflot, this aircraft was selected for public display and demonstration to showcase the USSR’s supersonic transport program. CCCP-77102 was later involved in a tragic accident during a demonstration flight on June 3, 1973, breaking apart mid-air and crashing into the town of Goussainville. The crash claimed the lives of six crew members and eight civilians on the ground.
Despite its short operational life, CCCP-77102 remains one of the most historically significant Tu-144 airframes. This photograph documents its presence on the ground before the ill-fated flight, offering a rare view of the aircraft in static configuration.
For archival reference and aircraft history, see .
