Build your own full-size model!

Over the years, we have seen the introduction of ¼-, 1/3-and even 40-percent-scale models of the world's most famous airplanes. Now, in an unprecedented development, the Arizona Model Aircrafters division of Prototype Production & Engineering (PPE) has embarked on a new phase of modeling: the creation of full-scale plans and the ability to construct full-size-and in some cases, operational-replicas of any aircraft that has ever existed.

How did this change of direction come about for the well-known Scottsdale, AZ-based manufacturer of more-shall we say "normal"-size-models? About two years ago, an aviation-themed restaurant chain contacted Arizona Model's Jaime Johnston to inquire whether it would be possible to provide them with a replica Spad 13 for display outside the eatery's entrance. Delivered unpainted and fabric-covered, the ISpad-large enough for an adult to sit in-was such a hit with its new owners that they asked Johnston to paint and detail it, and then they ordered a fullsize Fokker D-VlI from him, too! PPK fulfilled that request using plans (enlarged 400 percent!) that had been published in the March 1999 issue of Model Airplane News, and a new phase of the company's business was launched.

Using PPE's state-of-the-art manufacturing processes, aircraft designs can be scaled to any size, production times are drastically reduced, and tooling costs are practically eliminated. Explains Johnston, "Documentation is scanned directly into a computer. Full-size blueprints are no problem because of the wide-format optical scanner." Production is centered in the company's Chino, AZ, plant; the laser-cut parts are then shipped to Derby, 5England, for assembly by a workforce comprised mainly of former RollsRoyce employees.

Another contract took Johnston to Hampton, VA, where the Virginia Air & Space Center took possession of a PPEbuilt B-24 Liberator, a Curtiss Jenny and a 1903 Wright Flyer. A full-size replica of the Spirit of St. Louis resides in Johnston's backyard; its parts were laser cut and assembled from digitized, 400-perccntenlarged plans designed by Nick Ziroli. This model was recently purchased by the Venezuelan Air Force-a good thing, admits Johnston, because "My wife wants her garden back!" Full-size kits of operational 1903 Wright Flyers have been sold to the Venezuelan and Irish Air Forces, and customers for other replicas include National Geographic magazine, NASA and various universities. PPE is also the official replica maker for the First Flight Centennial Foundation.

These unique reproductions are truly works of art that represent craftsmanship at its best. As the 101st year of manned flight begins, it seems appropriate that model airplane making has also reached a new level of size and sophistication.

Copyright Air Age Publishing Jan 2004
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