Airfix 1/72 Boeing Chinook HC.1 Plastic Model Kit

An aircraft which possibly underlines the capabilities of the modern helicopter more effectively than any other type, the mighty Boeing CH-47 Chinook has already been in military service for over sixty years and shows no sign of disappearing from world skies any time soon.

The distinctive tandem twin-rotor configuration of this heavy-lift helicopter cleverly counteracts the effects of engine torque by having each of its huge rotor blade stacks rotate in opposite directions, thus negating the need for the tail rotors traditionally associated with helicopters. 

The impressive Chinook made its first flight in 1961 and since then, it has become one of the most effective aircraft designs of the post-war era, capable of operating in almost any environment, no matter how inhospitable the terrain. Clearly, this has made the Chinook invaluable when performing many roles, ably tackling a multitude of military and civilian applications. 

As the world's largest operator of the Chinook outside the US, the Royal Air Force ordered 33 of these heavy-lift behemoths in 1978, with No.18 Squadron taking the honour of becoming Britain's first operational Chinook unit in August 1981. 

These first helicopters were designated HC.1 (Helicopter Cargo Mk.1) and had hardly settled into service when events on the other side of the world required their first overseas deployment. Following the Argentinean invasion of the Falkland Islands in April 1982, five of the RAF's Chinooks were wrapped in Driclad PVC protective covers and loaded on the deck of the requisitioned container ship Atlantic Conveyor. 

Tragically, all but one of these helicopters was lost following an Exocet missile strike on the vessel, with that surviving Chinook earning legendary status within the RAF. Having already been in Royal Air Force service for over 42 years, the latest variants of the mighty Chinook seem certain to be in service for many years to come.

This remarkable 1:72 scale model of the Boeing CH-47 Chinook HC.1 accurately depicts the unique tandem twin-rotor design of this renowned heavy-lift helicopter. Comprising 171 pieces and rated at skill level 3, this kit provides modellers aged 8 and up the opportunity to assemble one of the most successful aircraft designs of the post-war period, featuring two genuine paint schemes reflecting Royal Air Force service.

Key Features

• 171 components for detailed assembly of this iconic heavy-lift helicopter
• 1:72 scale model
• Skill level 3 build offering a rewarding modelling experience
• Includes two genuine paint schemes
• Faithfully represents the distinctive tandem twin-rotor design
• Depicts RAF Chinook HC.1 variant from the early 1980s

History

An aircraft that perhaps best exemplifies the capabilities of modern helicopters, the formidable Boeing CH-47 Chinook has been in military service for over six decades and is expected to remain in the skies for the foreseeable future.

This heavy-lift helicopter's unique tandem twin-rotor setup ingeniously counterbalances engine torque by having its large rotor blades spin in opposite directions, eliminating the need for the tail rotors typically seen on helicopters.

The impressive Chinook took its maiden flight in 1961 and has since become one of the most successful aircraft designs of the post-war era, able to operate in nearly any environment, regardless of how challenging the terrain. This versatility has made the Chinook indispensable for a wide range of military and civilian tasks.

As the largest operator of the Chinook outside the United States, the Royal Air Force ordered 33 of these heavy-lift giants in 1978, with No.18 Squadron becoming Britain's first operational Chinook unit in August 1981.

These initial helicopters were designated HC.1 (Helicopter Cargo Mk.1) and were quickly called into action when events on the other side of the world necessitated their first overseas mission. Following the Argentinean invasion of the Falkland Islands in April 1982, five of the RAF's Chinooks were encased in Driclad PVC protective covers and loaded onto the deck of the requisitioned container ship Atlantic Conveyor.

Sadly, all but one of these helicopters were lost after an Exocet missile hit the vessel, with the surviving Chinook achieving legendary status within the RAF. Having served in the Royal Air Force for over 42 years, the latest versions of the mighty Chinook are expected to remain in service for many years to come.

Produced under licence. (Vehicle/Aeroplane Models) the distinctive logos, product markings and trade dress are all trademarks of The Boeing Company.

Key Specifications

• Finish: Plastic
• Skill Level: 3

Full Specifications