L.A.P.E., from one paradise to another
Líneas Aéreas Postales Españolas, a state airline born in the early 1930s, had a short life disrupted by the Spanish Civil War. Yet its 1934 brochure sold a bright idea: connect the Balearic Islands to the Canary Islands through mainland Spain and Morocco.
This plan follows that elegant, promotional and very Mediterranean line: Palma, Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, Seville, Larache, Casablanca, Agadir and Las Palmas.
A Spanish postal airline just before the Civil War.
Connect Balearics, Spain, Morocco and Canaries.
The DC-2 is historical; the DC-3 remains practical.
Cities, coasts, strait, Morocco and long Canary leg.
Understanding the flight
The route is short on a world scale, but rich: it crosses 1930s Spanish aviation, then turns toward North Africa and finally the Atlantic.
The advertising slogan still works in simulation: you depart from Balearic scenery and finish in Canary light.
Before departure
- Choose a DC-2 if available, or a sober DC-3.
- Keep clear weather over the Strait and Moroccan coast.
- Prepare the long Agadir to Las Palmas branch with fuel and alternate in mind.
- Fly like a postal airline: regular, clean and not at maximum speed.
Suggested route
Balearics and inland Spain
Palma, Barcelona and Madrid establish the L.A.P.E. backbone.
LEPA → LEBL → LEMD
Spanish Mediterranean
Valencia and Seville move the line south toward the Strait.
LEMD → LEVC → LEZL
Morocco and Canaries
Larache, Casablanca, Agadir and Las Palmas provide the most exotic and maritime section.
LEZL → GMMC → GMAD → GCLA
Experience tips
The flight benefits from light: morning departure from the Balearics, late-afternoon Canary arrival.
Do not skip Larache. Even as a manual point, it gives the right link between Spain and Morocco.
Copyright Michel Lagneau 2013