This model replica is painstakingly hand carved and then hand painted out of solid kiln dried mahogany wood (from renewable sources) by our highly experienced and talented craftsmen at our Filipino owned factory near the original Clark Air Base in Pampanga and takes about9-10 weeksto manufacture. Production in our factory is supervised by our own resident British Pilot who ensures that exact blueprints are used for these meticulously detailed scale models custom manufactured and precisely engineered to your exact specifications and that will be cherished by all.
100% handmade models naturally come at a higher price than off the shelf, plastic or diecast (die cast) models but it may interest you to know that an average regular size fixed wing or helicopter model takes on average a total of 26 dedicated Man Hours of work to produce. During this time the model transitions through over 40 different manufacturing stages and processes. The 26 hours are not consecutive and require in-between many days (and in some cases weeks) of drying and curing time as they pass from one department to another making the overall production time from an outsiders point of view appear rather lengthy. Given these facts the time period we quote for production alone is very standard for our type of industry and among our close competitors. If you are interested in what goes into making these models, there follows a summary process schedule and video. Please click on the image below to start the video which will open in a separate page in your browser (the tab on in your browser for this page will still stay open so you can go back to the eBay listing):-
The fully assembled model comes with a stained solid mahogany (or mahogany with steel arm) stand and is ready to display on your desk, bookcase or wherever you desire. The photographs you see have not been manipulated or digitally edited - they are exactly as the model looks in real life, but unfortunately even digital photography cannot do full justice to the look and feel of the model once you receive it!
PlaneArts have been producing models for over 20 years which are honed to perfection by the dexterity of our Skilled Master Craftsmen and carefully checked at all stages of manufacture by our dedicated Quality Assurance Team. We promote internationally on eBay to ensure our products get the best exposure worldwide. Due to a high level of demand and the huge diversity of aircraft types and liveries most models are made to order and take about 9-10 weeks to produce (excluding National and Public Holidays). You will also notice that we offer models often way below the price of other companies advertising on the eBay. We are able do this because of the direct manufacturing and selling basis of our business - models direct from the factory and not from an intermediary or trading / marketing company. All models are shipped internationally through FedEx, UPS or DHL Express Courier (Door to Door worldwide within about 3 business days). Fully traceable and insured against damage or loss).
Apart from those models you see in our eBay store - using your photos or images, we will make you a personalized replica model of your aircraft with your own individual paint scheme, logos, registration number, antennas and all the details that make your airplane special. You can even upgrade and personalize your model with a fully customized transparent interior to match your seats, colors, instrument panel and all other important interior details. Alternatively, we can copy any current or historic commercial or military airplane or helicopter that has ever flown just by giving us images or photos. Each meticulously detailed scale model is custom manufactured and precisely engineered to your exact specifications. We will build you a model that will not only meet your expectations but will go far beyond and with detail that will amaze you!
If you do not see the model you require in our eBay Store please message us on eBay with a description and images of what you require including the size or scale of the desired model and we will then do a dedicated listing for you on eBay. Our Customer Service Team will then help you with questions you may have and upon request update you on the status of your order. Our Production Team will work with you personally during construction until your model is ready to taxi on its journey to your own door in its foam fitted heavy duty export packaging.
To watch a video of the professional protective packing of PlaneArts models destined for all parts of the globe, please also click on the image below to start the video which will open in a separate page in your browser (the tab on in your browser for this page will still stay open so you can go back to the eBay listing)
Packing Process
Production video will open in a new window
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De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver Mk1: The Workhorse of Kenmore Air
The De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver Mk1 is a legendary aircraft that has played an instrumental role in aviation, particularly for small, regional airlines and specialized operators. One such operator is Kenmore Air, a seaplane airline based in Seattle, Washington, known for its scenic flights and transporting passengers across the waterways of the Pacific Northwest. With its rugged design, reliability, and ability to operate in challenging conditions, the DHC-2 Beaver Mk1 has been a key asset for Kenmore Airs fleet.
Origins of the DHC-2 Beaver Mk1
The De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver was introduced in 1947 as a versatile, single-engine utility aircraft designed to handle a variety of tasks. Developed by the Canadian aircraft manufacturer De Havilland Canada, the Beaver was designed to be tough, capable of carrying heavy loads, and capable of flying in and out of remote locations—making it ideal for bush flying, cargo transport, and passenger flights. With a rugged construction, high-wing design, and short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities, the Beaver quickly became the go-to aircraft for remote regions worldwide.
The DHC-2 Beaver Mk1 refers to the early production variants of the aircraft, typically powered by a Pratt & Whitney R-985 Wasp Junior radial engine, capable of delivering 450 horsepower. This engine gave the Beaver impressive performance for its size, making it a reliable aircraft for both land and amphibious operations.
Kenmore Airs Use of the DHC-2 Beaver Mk1
Kenmore Air, established in 1946, has a long history of using amphibious aircraft to connect passengers to remote islands, scenic spots, and coastal communities in the Puget Sound region. The DHC-2 Beaver Mk1 is integral to their operations, thanks to its adaptability to both water and land-based operations.
Kenmore Air operates a fleet of aircraft, including the De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver Mk1, primarily for scenic tours, charters, and scheduled flights. The aircraft is particularly well-suited for these tasks due to its amphibious capabilities, allowing it to land on both water and runways, making it ideal for accessing areas that may not have traditional airports or runways. This versatility ensures that Kenmore Air can provide access to otherwise difficult-to-reach destinations, offering passengers a unique and scenic flying experience.
Why the DHC-2 Beaver Mk1 is Ideal for Kenmore Air
Amphibious Capability: The DHC-2 Beaver Mk1 can be equipped with either floats for water operations or wheels for land-based operations, providing Kenmore Air with unmatched flexibility. This feature allows the aircraft to access remote lakes, harbors, and islands, providing a wide array of options for both commercial and charter flights.
STOL Performance: The aircraft’s short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities make it perfect for accessing smaller airstrips, which are common in the remote and often rugged regions served by Kenmore Air. Whether taking off from a waterway or a small airfield, the DHC-2 Beaver Mk1 can handle it with ease, making it a reliable choice for the airlines operations.
Durability and Reliability: Known for its ruggedness, the DHC-2 Beaver Mk1 is built to endure challenging conditions, including adverse weather and rough terrain. This reliability is crucial for Kenmore Air, which operates in an area with ever-changing weather patterns, including rain, fog, and strong winds.
Versatility: The aircraft can be used for a variety of purposes, from transporting passengers and cargo to conducting survey flights and rescue operations. For Kenmore Air, this versatility extends beyond passenger flights, as the DHC-2 Beaver Mk1 also plays a role in fulfilling specialized requests and charter flights for various industries, such as tourism and environmental monitoring.
A Lasting Legacy
The De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver Mk1 is not only a beloved aircraft for Kenmore Air but also a celebrated piece of aviation history. Its design has inspired countless operators in the bush flying, seaplane, and cargo transport sectors around the world. The Beaver is renowned for its ability to carry heavy loads over short distances and take off and land in places that would be impossible for most other aircraft.
Today, even as more modern aircraft join Kenmore Airs fleet, the DHC-2 Beaver Mk1 remains an iconic and irreplaceable workhorse in the skies of the Pacific Northwest. It continues to embody the spirit of adventure and exploration, providing passengers with an opportunity to experience the beauty of the region from above.
Conclusion
The De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver Mk1 is a testament to the power of functional, reliable, and versatile aircraft. For Kenmore Air, it’s an indispensable part of their fleet, allowing them to continue offering high-quality services to passengers exploring the beautiful Pacific Northwest. With its amphibious design, exceptional performance, and storied history, the Beaver remains a beloved aircraft for both operators and aviation enthusiasts alike.
