1:144 D.H.106 Comet-4B

Amodel 1:144 D.H.106 Comet 4B

A plastic kit of the de Havilland D.H.106 Comet jet airliner in its 4B version, in 1:144 scale, from the Ukrainian maker Amodel. The model is meant to be glued together and sprayed, and the box holds plastic parts, decals and instructions with a color scheme. The 1:144 scale is the standard one for airliners, so the finished model is a sensible size even for a collector with a smaller display case.

The real subject

The de Havilland Comet was the first series-built jet airliner in the world. The Comet 4B version came about for service on shorter European routes: compared with the basic Comet 4 it was given a lengthened cabin for more passengers and a shortened wing with no tip fuel tanks. As on the other Comets, the engines were built into the wing roots, which gives the type an unmistakable silhouette. Machines of this version flew with European carriers on medium-length routes.

Building and painting tips

With kits of this kind it pays to try every part dry first and to sand the mating surfaces if need be. The fuselage of an airliner is long, so glue it in sections and secure the joints as you go, to avoid a step. Fill the seams and sand them with fine paper; on glossy airline finishes every irregularity shows. Before the decals, apply a gloss coat compatible with the paint you have used, and once the decals are dry, go over them with a matte or semi-gloss coat according to the character of the subject. The cabin glazing is tiny in this scale, so spray with a light touch and mask the frames if you can.

Who the model is for

• Collectors of airliners in 1:144 scale
• Anyone interested in the history of civil jet flight
• Modelers with experience of kits that demand more of the fit
• Those who want the first jet airliner in their collection

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