Model Aeroplanes

Manawatu Times, Volume 61, Issue 1423, 19 June 1936, Page 5

Model Aeroplanes

Non-flying models of DH SG Express liner for Union Air-way prize. Cup ant', free trip to Blenheim—L. S. Houghton Palmerston North 1; D. West Palmerston North 2; J. Simpson Levin 3.

Exhibition class.—S. Edwards Auckland 1.

Made by Mr S. Edwards, of Newton Road, Auckland, while lying crippled in bed, an exceptionally complete model of the Union Airways liner Kotuku, built with balsa wood and tissue paper, is one of the most interesting exhibits in the large model aeroplane class on display in the produce hall. It is au entry in the challenge cup competition for a non-flying scale model of the DHBG express liner, and was awarded a special prize for exhibition only.

The model built by Mr Edwards is -12 inches across from wing-tip to wingtip. In the nose is the mailbag compartment, with miniature bags and a landing light in the nose door. Under the main wings are the new “landing flaps," for the purpose of reducing the speed of tho liner when landing at an airport. Over tho wheels are tho regular “steel pants” for protection purposes. On tho roof are the wireless aerials and an air propeller for driving tho electric dynamo. A close examination reveals painstaking and careful attention to details, as evidenced by there being over 3000 parts in the model, while in the wings alone there are 172 tiny ribs. The engine unit bodies are a marvel of fine construction, each of the four bodies being built up of eight separate pieces cemented together and complete in detail.

There are tho regular 12 tip-up chairs in the saloon, with bat racks and electric lights in the roof. The cockpit is furnished with the dual controls and seats for tho officers. Also there are sliding glass control windows. Behind tho saloon is the accommodation complete to tho shaving paper and mirrow in position. Still further back is the luggage hold, with entrances from the outside.