1:144 Dash 8Q400-AT Airtanker - Canadian Short Range Commuter Airliner

Dash 8 Q400 Airtanker, 1:144 scale

A model of the firefighting version of the Dash 8 Q400 airliner in 1:144 scale. This is a twin-engined turboprop machine that was converted for dropping fire retardant on forest fires.

The real subject

The Dash 8 Q400 is a Canadian airliner with a high-set wing, two turboprop engines and landing gear retracting into the engine nacelles. In its basic form it carries passengers on shorter routes. The firefighting conversion changes the purpose of the machine: the aircraft is given a tank for retardant and drops it in a low pass on the edge of a fire. Against classic purpose-built firefighting aircraft of older design it has the advantage of transit speed, so it reaches the seat of the fire sooner.

What makes the model interesting

Firefighting color schemes tend to be conspicuous, because the machine has to be clearly visible both from the aircraft around it and from the ground. The model therefore does not get lost in a display case among airliners. The scope of the package, the number of parts and the contents of the decal sheet are given by the manufacturer.

Building and painting tips

• Wash and degrease the parts before painting, because otherwise the paint holds badly on a smooth surface.
• Mask the canopy glazing before spraying, not after the paint has dried.
• Spray the striking areas of color in thin layers, so that no step arises at the edge.
• Glue the propellers in at the very end, otherwise they get in the way during further work and are easily broken off.

Who it is for

For collectors of civil aircraft in 1:144 scale and for anyone interested in aerial firefighting equipment.

Paints and glue are not supplied, unless stated otherwise.