By Chris Banyai-Riepl

Overview (From Instructions)

While building Pacific Western Air Lines (1953), Russ Baker bent, broke or flagrantly disobeyed most of the regulations governing air transport. Along the way PWA managed to absorb most of its competitors, including QCA, CPA and Wardair. Eventually PWA itself was absorbed (as Pacific Western Holdings – CAL) by Air Canada.

In 1953 the first DC-3s (CF-PWH, CF-EPI) were added to the fleet, with four more being added in 1956. The DC-3 greatly increased PWA's capacity on cargo, scheduled and charter flights. By the late 60s the DC-3s operated only as backup and training aircraft, with the last being sold in 1973 (PWH).

The Decals

Like the Minicraft kit it's designed for, this is a small sheet, but complete with details to allow you to build two styles of Pacific Western DC-3s. The DC-3s of Pacific Western are finished in the common white over natural metal, with the vertical tail and wingtips painted red. The tail also has a white band across the middle, providing a spot for the aircraft registration. The cheatline consists of three blue lines separated by white, with the cabin windows incorporated. Two styles of Pacific Western titles are included, as well as spare eyelet decals for CF-PWI. Other details include door outlines, propeller logos & tips, and the windscreen. Like other Whiskey Jack decals, these are Alps-printed decals with dense colors, but they are more fragile than traditional decals. Definitely handle these with care, and be sure to overcoat them when they're on the model.

For those wanting something different for their DC-3 collection, Whiskey Jack offers some interesting subjects in addition to this one. Check out their website for more information. Our thanks to Whiskey Jack for the review sample.