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John Healy
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1/72 A.W. Whitley Mk. V

February 18, 2016 · in Aviation · · 24 · 2.4K

This is the new kit built almost from the box. I only added a bit of internal structure inside the fuselage behind the open door. It was finished with Humbrol enamels and kit decals. I have a weakness for RAF bombers and this kit certainly didn't disappoint. It includes a truly comprehensive internal structure that features detail that rivals most 1/48 kits. The kit is engineered in a very unique manner , building out from a central core based on the bomb bays and lower center section. The fuselage is not your standard left and right halves. It is a sort of jig saw puzzle of parts that all come together flawlessly. A real stand out kit in 1/72, and lots of fun. I can't wait for the ASW Mk.VII later this year!

Reader reactions:
7  Awesome

6 additional images. Click to enlarge.


24 responses

  1. Nice work...I like that paint job.

  2. I've seen this in the box, but this is the first build.

    An iconic subject (at least here in England) and kudos to Airfix for bringing it to market.

    Your build and narrative really give us the high points. Thanks for posting,

    • Thanks Rob. Light years ahead of the old Frog kit, which wasn't bad for it's time. This kit built up really fast. I had the basic construction done in about 5 days, it's that good. I would have finished it sooner but real life bit into my modeling time this month. Still, it only took 1 month from start to finish. The next Airfix Whitley release will include parts for the ASW Mk. VII and a BOAC freighter. Buy with confidence!

  3. Airfix can finally take its rightful place amongst the best kit manufacturers of the world! This kit, like most of their latest offerings, oozes with detail and is a pleasure to build. Now if only Airfix could release a Supermarine Scimitar in 1/48 scale! John you did a stellar job on this Whitley. Together with a Blenheim, Manchester, Wellington and Stirling you would have an awesome line up. Well done!

    • Thanks Morne. I do have a Blenheim Mk.I about 90% done. As for the rest, I am planning on building them to replace the old bombers I built many years ago. A Manchester kit would be a treat.

  4. Nice job John, however, I always thought it was a strange looking plane. Like what you did with her.

  5. Good to see Airfix tackling a more specialist subject like this, and equally good to see what a fine job you've done.

    • Thanks George. I agree. I like seeing subjects off the beaten path kitted to modern standards. I also picked up a Valom Bristol Bombay to eventually sit next to it on the shelf.

  6. Nice looking build, John. I also love the "unusual" subjects - I think I have an older Airfix Whitley in my stash (or is it the Frog kit)? After hearing of your experience with this kit, I think I'll be on the lookout for the ASW version!

  7. Beautiful build it looks ready for flight, love the paint. Very nice

  8. Great job John! Looks great. I have always thought the Whitley a very interesting aircraft, with it's strange nose down attitude in flight. It's amazing what some very brave crews achieved with the Whitley in those early days of the war. I think Airfix must have the most comprehensive 1/72 range of Bomber Command aircraft, I'm surprised they haven't issued a big box set! Now all they need to do is "re-tool" the Hampden and the Halifax! Yes please!

    • Thanks James. It is an interesting plane indeed. It was designed from the start as a night bomber. I'd love to see an Airfix Halifax I/II. Revell messed up the engines on theirs but their Hercules powered Mk.III is very nice. Imagine a Hampden in 1/48? That's my Christmas wish!

  9. Nice work. It is indeed a great kit that makes up into an interesting model. I'm doing mine as Cheshire's "N for November".

  10. Nice Whitley John ! Maybe not the most elegant bomber but makes a great looking addition to your collection.

  11. Nice work John!

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