Many have asked us in the past few months – now it’s finally here: The BAe 146-200 in “AirUK” livery. With this aircraft model, you not only hold a piece of British aviation history in your hands, but also a model that is great for beginners. With 63 parts and clear instructions, this kit can be built into an impressive result even without years of experience. Take a look at the kit directly in the Revell Shop – here we’ll tell you a bit more about the original BAe 146-200.
AirUK and the BAe 146-200: From Regional Aircraft to Key Player
AirUK was one of the defining airlines in British regional traffic during the 1980s and 1990s. When the airline needed to modernize its fleet in the 1980s, they chose the BAe 146-200 – not a given, as the aircraft was considered unusual at the time. With four engines and a wingspan of 26.34 meters, it was larger than typical regional jets, but that’s exactly what made it the perfect tool for demanding routes.
The BAe 146-200 became the backbone of their fleet, especially for routes with challenging airports. A prime example was the London – Florence route, whose runway was severely restricted at the time. Thanks to the short takeoff capability of the BAe 146-200, AirUK was able to serve this connection as the first airline – a strategic advantage that set the company apart from the competition: While competitors failed at the short runway in Florence, the BAe 146-200 mastered this challenge effortlessly thanks to its short takeoff capability of only 1,370 m takeoff distance at maximum payload).
The aircraft with registration G-UKPC took off in 1989 in its characteristic blue and white design and later even became a museum piece. Also interesting is the hybrid livery of the G-BNND, which briefly carried elements of both US-based Pacific Southwest Airlines and AirUK.
Technical Masterpiece for the City
The BAe 146-200 was predestined for airports like London City or the now-closed Berlin-Tempelhof. With a cruising speed of 750-780 km/h and a range of up to 2,900 km, it connected not only British regions but also destinations like Jersey and Guernsey. Its four Honeywell LF507 engines enabled climb rates that remained reliable even at high temperatures or on short runways.
A special highlight was the air brake at the tail, which – unlike most jets – extended laterally. This feature helped pilots control speed even on wet runways, even if the spoilers failed.
A distinctive feature of the BAe 146-200 was the laterally extending air brake at the tail. Since the engines had no thrust reversal, this 1.5 m² system took over the braking work during landings. During an incident in Stord 2006 (Norway), this design saved the crew: When the spoilers failed, the air brake safely slowed the aircraft despite a wet runway. In the Revell model, this detail is designed as a separate component – a perfect connection point to appreciate the engineering art of the 1980s during construction.
From Original to Model: Technical Finesse in Detail
The BAe 146-200 was no ordinary regional jet. At 28.55 m in length and with a wingspan of 26.34 m, it accommodated up to 112 passengers – though often in tight 6-abreast seating, which was criticized by airlines like Lufthansa Cityline. For us model builders, however, the distinctive high-wing configuration with the four engines under the wings is a visual treat.
The Avro RJ85 version received modernized engines and a smooth nose section from 1993. These details are cleanly implemented in the model, as is the typical AirUK livery with the dark blue stripe along the window line.
Career End as a Firefighting Aircraft
After their flight service, many BAe 146-200s experienced a second life as firefighting aircraft. Neptune Aviation in Montana converted them into flying fire extinguishing tanks that could drop 11,000 liters of water over forest fires per mission. These conversions prove the robustness of the design and enabled the aircraft to have a second life that demonstrates the robustness of the machines.
AirUK also had curious experiences: The G-UKHP initially flew in the striking blue and white design, but was later repainted in the more sober corporate design of Buzz. Such transformations can also be recreated with our Revell kit for experienced modelers.
Easy to Build, Still Authentic
The Revell kit (here in the Shop) impresses with its precise fit and the authentic reproduction of the AirUK livery. The 63 parts are manageable but sufficiently detailed – ideal for gaining first experiences with airliner models. Even the engines, often a challenge with four-engine aircraft, are easy to assemble thanks to clear molded parts. A special treat for history fans: The BAe 146-200 was one of the last commercial aircraft produced in Great Britain before BAE Systems ceased production in 2001. With the model, you’re bringing a piece of aircraft industry history to your shelf.
Product Features at a Glance
- Scale 1:144 – Compact but detailed
- AirUK decals – Including hybrid design of the G-BNND
- Simple building instructions – Suitable for young people from 10 years
- Historical authenticity – From the air brake to the characteristic nose
Perfect for Getting Started in Aircraft Modeling
Whether you’re a fan of British airlines or simply looking for an uncomplicated project – the BAe 146-200 “AirUK” from Revell is an ideal candidate. With its rich history and distinctive design features, it offers enough material for conversations without being overwhelming to build. Check out the kit today in the Revell Shop and start your journey into the world of regional jets!
Building Inspirations
Here you can get authentic insights into the cockpit: