1:72 Learjet 60XR Vista

Learjet 60XR 1:72: an Amodel plastic kit

This unassembled and unpainted plastic kit in 1:72 scale captures the Bombardier Learjet 60XR business jet. The box holds 150 plastic parts, one sprue of clear plastic for the glazing, a decal sheet and printed assembly instructions. The finished model is approximately 245 mm long with a span of approximately 185 mm, so it is a decently large piece for a display case.

The real subject

The Learjet 60 is a mid-size business jet built in Wichita, Kansas, powered by a pair of Pratt & Whitney Canada PW305A jet engines. The 60XR version is its upgrade with a revised cabin interior and new avionics. The 60XR flew for the first time on April 4, 2006, and customer deliveries began in July 2007. The aircraft is typically configured for six to eight passengers, and its range lets it link more distant business destinations without a stop.

Building and painting tips

Business jets have smooth glossy surfaces, so the greatest work is in preparing the paintwork. Fill and sand the fuselage carefully, lay down a primer and check the surface again against the light, because every scratch will show in gloss white. Amodel is short-run production, so expect to clean the parts up and dry-fit them, above all where the wing and the engine nacelles seat. Spray the gloss white base in thin coats, then mask the color stripes with good tape. Bond the cockpit glazing with an adhesive for canopies. Apply the decals over a perfectly glossy surface and use a decal softener so that they settle onto the contours of the fuselage.

Who the model is for

• Collectors of civilian airliners and business jets in 1:72 scale
• Modelers who are up for demanding gloss paintwork
• Anyone interested in modern jets for business transport
• Builders with experience of short-run kits

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.