1:72 Avia CS-199 open/closed (EDA)

The two-seat CS-199 and its glazing

The trainer version had a second station behind the pilot, and the lengthened glazing follows from that; it differs markedly from the single-seat machine. Vacuum forming makes it possible to produce a transparent shape this long in one piece and with a minimum wall thickness. The designation open and closed points to the option of building the canopy in either position.

The trainer version of the Mezek

Fitting a bomber engine to a German airframe made the aircraft demanding to fly, and converting onto it called for a two-seat school variant. The instructor sat at the rear and could take over the controls at any moment, which on a machine notorious for its behavior on takeoff and landing meant many aircraft saved. The type served the Czechoslovak Air Force as a transition trainer and supported the combat units equipped with the single-seat variant.

What the fitting involves

Cutting out a long part calls for a steady hand: go around the edge twice and never press on the knife. Sand wet to keep the dust down and keep checking the fit against the fuselage. Use glue for clear parts to attach it, as an ordinary solvent would fog the surface. Paint the inside of the frames before fitting. Have the equipment of both stations ready as well, because once the transparent part is glued on there is no getting inside.

Which modelers it is for

• collectors of Czechoslovak postwar types
• builders of school and trainer aircraft
• modelers who want thin glazing
• the more experienced, who know vacuum-formed parts