An RC tribute to Dutch aviation

Model Airplane News, Jul 2001 by Van Mourik, Dick

A group of Dutch modelers has undertaken a unique and formidable task-constructing and flying scale models of nearly every plane that ever served in the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF). The PHantasy in Blue Foundation is a nonprofit organization that pays tribute to Dutch aviation by developing large-scale models of both vintage and modem Dutch aircraft for exhibit at festivities such as airshows and reunions. It is one of the only organizations of its kind in the world.

Established on September 20, 1995, in coordination with the RNLAF and the Royal Netherlands Aeronautical Association (RNAA), the foundation's name is loosely based on the George Gershwin classic, "Rhapsody in Blue"; the letters P and H are the national code of the Dutch aircraft registration system. The foundation has grown rapidly since its birth, thanks to the generous support of companies such as Fokker, KIM and the RNLAF, as well as that of many Dutch scale modelers.

A few years ago, Deelen airbase was the site of a memorable airshow that showcased 35 models of KIM and Fokker aircraft in celebration of the 75th anniversary of both companies. That event attracted as many as 35,000 enthusiastic visitors. Many of the models have also been displayed in neighboring countries, including Germany, Belgium and England.

The PHantasy in Blue Foundation is currently working on a series of RNLAF models built to 1/5 scale. The Commander in Chief of the RNLAF selected the designs for the new series; they range from the first "wind in the wire"type aircraft and WW II bombers to modern jet fighters.

Successfully completing such a demanding task requires a vast amount of hard work and knowledge. Modelers who are interested in taking part in the project must first register with the foundation and are then selected and assigned to work on a specific model-- as an individual or on a team.

For each project, the Air Force provides detailed information about the original plane, as well as financial support, but the modelers are responsible for every other detail involved in building and flying the planes. Every member is obligated to build the plane within a specified period of time and must keep it airworthy for 10 years after its completion.

Many of the models are made out of fiberglass and foam, but ultimately, it is the modelers who decide which method of construction they prefer. All of the plans are reviewed by full-size aircraft designers, as well as by fellow team members, to make sure that there are no structural mistakes.

Since the start of the project, many teams and individuals have contributed by documenting, designing, building and testing a wide variety of models. The result of so much effort is the creation of the world's first fleet of RC model aircraft that accurately reflect the development of the Netherlands Air Force. More important, the PHantasy in Blue Foundation is preserving a piece of Dutch national history to share with large audiences.

Such a massive project would be impossible without sponsorship. The PHantasy in Blue Foundation is blessed with financial support from several major European firms, including AMT (turbines), Tony Clark (Zenoah engines) and Volz (servos).

Approximately 50 aircraft are scheduled to be built over the next several years, and as time and money permit, many more are sure to follow. For more information, see the PHantasy in Blue website: www.phblue.com.