The Lockheed Corporation introduced the Model 75 Saturn in the mid-1940s as a small, short-route commercial aircraft. Designed by Don Palmer and his team, the high-wing, twin-engine monoplane could carry 14 passengers and reach a top speed of 367km/h (228 mph). One of the Saturn's unique features was its ability to accommodate passengers and cargo without the need for ramps or stairs, making it ideal for small-town airports with limited facilities.
Tony LeVier piloted the aircraft's first flight on June 17, 1946. Although Lockheed had initially received 500 orders for the Saturn, priced at $85,000 each, the final cost of the aircraft was $100,000, causing the orders to be canceled. The same market was then filled with war surplus C-47s at a quarter the price. Unfortunately, Lockheed lost $6 million from developing the two prototypes scrapped in 1948.