Hobby Master Airliner Series HL2002
Douglas C-54 Skymaster Diecast Model
Berlin Airlift Historical Foundation, "Spirit of Freedom"
| 1:200 Scale | | Length | | Width |
|---|
| Douglas C-54 Skymaster | | 5.75" | | 7" |
The Spirit of Freedom is a preserved Douglas C54E/R5D owned by the Berlin Airlift Historical Foundation that actually took part in the famed Berlin Airlift. The aircraft has been painted to represent the 48th Troop Carrier Squadron that was one of many that took part in the action. The Foundation purchased the Douglas C-54E on Dec. 22, 1992 and began the restoration. As part of the project the interior was made into a flying museum and memorial dedicated to the Berlin Airlift. The aircraft can be seen at many air shows.
Conceived as a civil airliner the Douglas DC-4 was commandeered by the U.S. Government on December 5, 1941 even before production had begun. Now known as the C-54 it had several modifications made to meet military requirements and first flew in March 1942. During WWII more than 1,200 C-54s were produced and operated in every theater of operations. The aircraft was the U.S. military workhorse carrying everything from Presidents to wounded personnel to coal. With the end of WWII more than 300 surplus C-54s were converted to commercial airline requirements.
Designed as a military derivative of the Douglas DC-4 civilian airliner, the Douglas C-54 Skymaster was introduced in 1942. Used by the US Army Air Forces and the US Navy, the Skymaster was the most prolific US long-range transport aircraft to serve during WWII, and the first four-engined transport to serve with the USAAF. It is best known, however, as the first official Air Force One presidential transport aircraft. Called “Sacred Cow,” the Skymaster received this designation in 1944 when it was modified for use by Franklin D. Roosevelt. Roosevelt used the aircraft just one time, though it remained in service for more than two years.© Copyright 2003-2010 The Flying Mule, Inc.
The Hobby Master "1:200 Airliner Series" presents detailed, ready-made diecast models of civilian aircraft. Hobby Master "1:200 Airliner Series" diecast airplanes feature:
- Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
- Realistic panel lines and surface details.
- Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
- Optional extended/retracted landing gear.
- Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
- Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.
© Copyright 2003-2010 The Flying Mule, Inc.
