This sircraft was willed to the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) in 1971. The National Air and Space Museum learned of the Alpha’s existence and negotiated with the EAA and with Trans World Airlines for its restoration. It was restored by volunteers from Trans World Airlines and brought back to its present almost "as new’ condition.
Northrop 4A Alpha
(TWA)
The Alpha carried passengers in an enclosed cabin, along with 465 pounds (209 kilograms) of mail; but the pilot still sat outside in an open cockpit. It had a strong, yet light, design of its multicellular wing, which is still used by aircraft designers. The Alpha was retired from service in the mid-1930s.