The aircraft was owned by TWA in the 1940s, when Richter-Holden's father was Executive Vice President, and was used for high-altitude research and executive transport. In 2005, through a twist of fate, Ruth Richter-Holden was introduced to the plane when the owner contacted her looking for historic details in order to sell it. Driven by a faint memory and gut feeling, Richter-Holden purchased the 12A sight unseen and as she exclaims, “brought her back to TWA.”

"No one can own history. We are only the guardians of NC18137," Richter-Holden said. Her father's log books confirmed what she had suspected: Richter-Holden had flown in the plane as a child with her dad, Paul Richter and his lifelong business partner Jack Frye. "This airplane represents the accomplishments of the entire U.S. airline industry; the birth and progress of commercial aviation; the safety innovations for which the industry is known today. The Lockheed 12A is the first all-metal, all-electric twin engine. Richter-Holden’s 12A, NC18137, was instrumental in high altitude research, deicing equipment and static discharge. This Lockheed is a tribute to the aviation pioneers of aircraft and airlines. Our dedication is to share this American aviation heritage icon of ingenuity, innovations and ideals with the public."

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