1:72 Morane Saulnier MS.A.I “Other services”

The real subject

The Morane-Saulnier AI is a French single-seat fighter from the end of the First World War with the wing carried on struts above the fuselage, that is with the layout called a parasol. It gives the pilot a clear view forward and downward, which was a real advantage over biplanes. It was powered by a rotary engine, in which the star of cylinders turned together with the propeller, and the nose is therefore covered by a characteristic cowling. Machines of this type also reached users outside the French units.

What the set contains

This is a plastic kit in 1:72 scale. The parts are on sprues, the package holds a sheet of decals and instructions with painting diagrams. This edition is built around the markings of machines outside French service, so it also suits anyone who has already built the same type in French colors. The particular users, aircraft and their color schemes are stated by the instructions.

Building and painting tips

Finish and paint the cockpit before you glue the fuselage halves together. Do not rush the seating of the wing: glue the struts one at a time, hold the model up against the light and watch that the wing is neither twisted nor out of line. Lay the paint on in thin coats so that the relief of the ribs under the covering stays visible, and before the decals coat the areas to a gloss, otherwise matte edges will form under the decal. Stretch the rigging only after the varnish has dried.

Who it is for

The set is for the builder of aircraft of the First World War who is looking for less usual markings. The paints, the glue and the tools are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.