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Bearing a strong family resemblance to the D.H.84
Dragon, the Dragon Rapide was essentially an early commuter aircraft.
Its pre-war popularity as a reliable and economic transport capable of
operating in adverse conditions, led to its adoption by the RAF and the
Royal Navy as a trainer and communications aircraft during the war.
These military versions were designated D.H.89B Dominie(521 built). Some
Dominies were still in military service until 1958. Post war military
operators of the Dominie included Belgium and the Netherlands. Post war
operators of the Rapide included KLM and British European Airways who
operated a large number on services to the Western Isles. A number were
upgraded in the 1950’s with improved engines and constant speed
propellers, allowing an increase in performance and a maximum take -off
weight of 6000lb(2722kg). These were designated D.H.89A Mk.4. An
attractive and durable aircraft, the Rapide is still flying with around
14 remaining airworthy. Production of the Rapide ended in 1946. The
example illustrated is a D.H.89B Dominie.
VH-BGP
c/n M2524 United Kingdom
10 seat light transport first flown in 1934
Engines: 2x 200hp(149kW) DH Gipsy Queen 2
Length: 34’6"(10.52m)
Height: 10’3"(3.12m)Wingspan: 48’0"(14.63m)
No.built: 207 Range: 550miles(885km)
Cruising speed: 132mph(212kmh) Empty weight: 3230lb(1465kg)
Maximum take-off weight: 5550lb(2520kg)
G-AIYR
c/n 6676
de Havilland D.H.89A Dragon Rapide Side view 1/144 scale
Side view 1/108 scale
Side view 1/72 scale |
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