Aeroclassics February 2021

Aeroclassics roll into February 2021 about a week later than usual. Typically they announce releases the first Friday of the month here in the U.S. but pushed back a week. The reason for that largely is unknown but in the work of 1/400 diecast, a week late is barely late at all.

For February, AC returns with once again, a very  generous bunch of models. This month 11 models were released on 7 moulds. Most of the moulds from last month have returned. That includes the TU-154, the DC-8, the DC-4, the 727-100 and the A310. New mould this month include the A321neo (2x) and the DC-7. 

From a geographical standpoint, 9 different countries from 6 different regions once again means that there is something here for every collector to at least consider. Not to mention there is also variety in manufacturer and time period, from the most modern to some of the earliest commercial aircraft. For my full take on things...

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A Pair of TU-154s:
In 2021, we are interestingly seeing the frequent refurbishment and reutilization of old moulds. While there isn't anything that compares to the detail and precision that the like of NG and JC Wings are accomplishing, with a little humility and wisdom, perhaps an old dog can learn new tricks. Amongst the 727-100, the old B.B. 747, and now the revitalized TU-154, Aeroclassics is going back in time to deliver on old wishes. The refurbished TU-154 mould which has changed hands a few times is now back in action compliments of YU Models and Aeroclassics is capitalizing this month with two models. One is the Ural Airlines registered RA-85807 and the other is the Samara Airlines RA-85817. Both appear to be pretty good looking although the Ural has been the subject of discussion on color.

SAMARA AIRLINES TUPOLEV T154 RA-85817

SAMARA AIRLINES TUPOLEV T154 RA-85817

URAL AIRLINES TUPOLEV TU-154 RA-85807

URAL AIRLINES TUPOLEV TU-154 RA-85807

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A Trio of 727-100s
Back once again is the 727-100. This month we have the chance to chase three different models two from the North American region with both the Canadian, First Air and the American, ATA. Both look exceptional and the ATA is one of this months apparent top sellers. The First air is 727# 559 built in 1968. Yet it looks ageless in the sleek scheme. First serving with Braniff, the frame has made its rounds. If it is still in service, I am not sure, but this one shouldn't be missed. The ATA, built in 1967 is just as ageless. I am schedule to take delivery of this model and I hope AC has gotten close to the correct font and colors. I have high hops that it will look good next to my NG L1011. Finally, Icelandic fans can be glad in finally getting that delivery scheme. There's not a bad classic 727 this month making for hard choices to be made!

AMERICAN TRANSAIR BOEING B727-100 N286AT

AMERICAN TRANSAIR BOEING B727-100 N286AT

FIRST AIR BOEING B727-100 C-FPXD

FIRST AIR BOEING B727-100 C-FPXD

ICELANDAIR BOEING B727-100 TF-FIA

ICELANDAIR BOEING B727-100 TF-FIA

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Douglass Turbos:
The Aeroclassics DC-4 mould has been getting a nice workout lately but things got even better this month for collectors of vintage aircraft as the return of the DC-7 was a pleasant surprise as well. The DC-4 this month is a TAP registered CS-TSC and apparently it was one of three models that were made in limited quantities so be sure to get your order in soon if you haven't done so already. This model will make a nice pair with the A321neo in TAP retro colors as well. The South African DC-7 is a real treat and the AC DC-7 mould is fantastic. This will be a great stable mate to the DC-4 last month.

SOUTH AFRICAN DOUGLAS DC7 ZS-DKF

SOUTH AFRICAN DOUGLAS DC7 ZS-DKF

TAP AIR PORTUGAL DOUGLAS DC4 CS-TSC

TAP AIR PORTUGAL DOUGLAS DC4 CS-TSC

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Douglas Quad Jet:
The South African DC-7 is a great segue into the Finn DC-8. While there isn't much about this particular airline or this particular aircraft that interests me, there isn't really anything wrong with it. It's a nice crisp livery with some great heritage. This mould is really very good and it seems all the main details of this scheme are in good order. Purchase with confidence. 

FINNAIR DOUGLAS DC-8-62 OH-LFZ

FINNAIR DOUGLAS DC-8-62 OH-LFZ

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Airbus Moderns and a Classic:
Rounding out the month are three Airbus aircraft. A pair of A321 neos, one from TAP in retro colors registered CS-TJR looks to be a very special looking model and will look great next to the retro A330 released a while back. It's also a nice complement to the DC-4 as I've already mentioned. The other A321 is what seems to be a very nice looking Cathay. The Cathay is registered as B-HPB and was actually painted in Cathay Dragon colors before it wore this standard Cathay Pacific scheme. I've seen somewhere that the colors look off, but I'll be receiving this one in the mail this week and I'll be able to have a good look for myself. Lastly, we have a handsome A310 in early Thai Airways colors. This is a nice compliment to anyone who was able to grab the 737-200 in the same scheme released late in 2020. 

THAI AIRWAYS AIRBUS A310 HS-TIA

Cathay Pacific A321NEO B-HPB

TAP A321NEO CS-TJR

TAP A321NEO CS-TJR

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As usual, Aeroclassics has perpetuated the game of hide and seek. While I have an initial order for four of this months releases, I'm sure to find myself tracking down several more. The 'juices' are flowing well over there at AC. The only thing holding them back is the pursuit of moulds fit for the year 2021. I can't wait to see what's next for AC.