Gemini Jets, Aer Lingus BAE-146: EI-CSL

As far as BAE-146 castings go, this is personal favorite. The Gemini version first saw circulation twice in 2006. It was used eleven (!) times in 2007, and five times in 2008. It has not been used or seen since then. This particular casting has a reputation as being a chronic tail-sitter which may explain why it's been shelved. 

This Aer Lingus example was the first for 2008. It was sent to market in January, and is one of an estimated 1500 copies. For a closer look at this quad-engined jet, read on...

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The real version of this aircraft is serial number E2074. Its first flight occurred on May 19th, 1987, and was first operated by Pacific Southwest Airlines, (PSA). The aircraft is still in service, 37 years later. It has been converted into a water bomber and is stationed in Montana. She served with Aer Lingus for about 2.5 years between 1998 and 2000. 

The real thing: A rather rare photograph of EI-CSL just before touch down in Zurich, April 2000. Photograph courtesy of PixAir/Robert Pichler, Airliners.net)

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Notes:
This was one of my first model airplanes. It was purchased from Airlinemuseum.com in perhaps 2009. The model is in great shape, but does have a few minor production deformities. Its paint and mainframe have done well against the test of time, so far.