de Havilland DH.89A Dragon Rapide 1/72 Die Cast Model "G-ADDD"
The De Havilland Dragon Rapide was dedsigned by De Havilland in late 1933 and was intended for use as a British short-haul passenger airliner during the 1930s. Taking its first flight in 1934 and entering service with Hillman Airways, the twin engined aircraft with its tapered wings, streamlined fairings, speed and comfort, was probably the most successful British short haul commercial passenger plane of the 1930s. Throughout its life, over 700 were built, a third of which were used by civil airlines. This particular aircraft, however, had Royal patronage. The Royal family has used air transport for Royal visits since the 1930s. King Edward VIII becamse the first British monarch to fly in 1936. Royal flight was formalised on 21st July 1936 with the creation of the King's Flight at Hendon, North London. The new Flight operated a single twin-engined Dragon Rapide - G-ADDD, which had formerly been HRH King Edward VIII's private aircraft.Painted in blue, red and silver, note particularly the Prince of Wales' Feathers in minute detail on the tail.