P-59A Airacomet

by Robert Ferrero

Hobbycraft's 1/48 scale P-59A Airacomet is available online from Squadron.com

The Bell P-59 Airacomet holds the unique distinction of being the first gas turbine, or turbojet, powered airplane to be built and flown in the United States of America.

Hobbycraft recently released two versions of this aircraft, a YP59-A prototype and an operational P-59A. I chose to build the P-59A which featured vertical fin and wing tip modifications.

Here are several images of a P-59A stationed at Van Nuys, California in 1948. The aircraft was eventually restored and placed in a position of honor in the year 2000 as the first aircraft you see upon entering the March Field Museum.

The only addition to the Hobbycraft bits was a Cutting Edge cockpit. This is a beautifully designed resin offering. Because the in box cockpit is simplified, I consider it an essential component if you are planning to display your project with the canopy open.
 

Click the thumbnails below to view larger images:

Model, Images and Text Copyright © 2003 by Robert Ferrero
Page Created 03 April, 2003
Last Updated 25 March, 2004

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