Boeing 221 Monomail - Dekno Models 1/72nd resin kit conversion + Arctic Decals transfers and masks

 

Finally the Monomail conversion is ready to fly to the modeling skies. The Dekno Models Monomail 200 kit is well known by now,  it required some adaptations of course to become a model 221. I used the superb Arctic Decals masks set I have used before for my first Monomail, plus a special decal set catering for this version.

My thanks to John Newcome for facilitating the kit that was used for this conversion. The details and step-by-step build can be consulted here:

https://wingsofintent.blogspot.com/2024/07/boeing-monomail-model-221-dekno-172nd.html

My first Monomail build can be seen here:

https://wingsofintent.blogspot.com/2022/12/boeing-model-200-monomail-dekno-172nd.html

Among other details needed for this 221 type conversion:

The fuselage was extended

The nose details were modified changing from stiffeners to louvers

A compartmentalized interior was created including a passenger cabin and mail hold

The fuselage was modified opening the windows, tree hatches and a cabin door

The fairing after the cockpit was scratchbuilt as it was different

Wheel fairings were also scratchbuilt as they were different

Landing lights were home-made

The exhaust fuselage guard was added

A Pitot tube was fabricated

An Arctic Decals set was used + their painting masks

The 221 was a handsome machine of relatively big size and imposing figure, from a time when Boeing’s name wasn’t yet tarnished due to putting profit over safety and quality, as reported variously on the news and in documentaries.

It would be nice to see a kit of the stretched 221A version.

The Monomail didn’t reach the success it was expected of it, a fate suffered by many designs ahead of its time, but was nonetheless the precursor of much modern types based on its features. Elegant and projecting speed and power, it’s one of the classics of the Golden Age of Aviation. I know that the late Boeingite Jim Schubert is looking and smiling from his cloud.