Here is my latest, and possibly the last of my lockdown builds for a while (?)
Monarch Airlines operated a fleet of 7 Boeing 720B’s through the 70’s and into the early 80‘s, forming the backbone of their fleet. Operating from many U.K. airports on inclusive tour flights mainly to the ‘Med’, Canaries, and on a short and not very successful Caribbean programme.
This particular example started life on lease from Northwest Airlines to TWA in 1961, before going back to its original operator in 1962.
Monarch acquired ‘Kilo Mike’ in January 1972 and operated it for approximately 11 years until replaced by new technology Boeing 757’s! KM ended it’s days at Davis-Monthan AFB, as part of the U.S Airforce’s programme to re-engine it’s KC-135A’s.
The model is the exquisite Authentic Airliners example which comes with a choice of either turbojet P&W JT3-C’s, or turbofan JT3-D’s. As Monarch operated turbofan examples I’ll be able to use the spares on my Roden B720 that is currently a in my stash. The decals are from 26 Decals screen printed range, and although beautifully printed, proved a little problematic in that as soon as they were placed on the model they immediately bedded down onto it and stubbornly refused to move. Sadly this resulted in some of the smaller decals tearing, and the model being a little devoid of detail.
Despite the aforementioned problems I’m pleased with the end result. Once again thanks for taking the time to look, and as always all comments and feedback is gratefully received.
Cheers, Nick.