Vought Sikorsky VS44
American Export Airlines ordered three of these flying boats
to fly ‘as far as possible, as fast as possible and with the greatest possible
cargo’. Sikorsky based their design on the U.S. Navy’s XPBS-1 reconnaissance
aircraft. All three VS44s were requisitioned by the U.S. Navy for the duration
of World War Two, though they were operated in American Export colours, with
civilian crews, thereby being able to access neutral countries such as Spain,
Portugal and Ireland. The aircraft held many records, could carry cargo and
passengers non-stop for more than 5,000 miles (8,000 km) in certain
configurations and made the fastest non-stop flight between Europe and New
York, having taken off in Foynes, Ireland.
Only NC-41881 ‘Excambian’ survived the war. It is preserved
today in NEAM in New England, U.S.A..
'Excambian' in NEAM, New England
This is a ceramic collectable, rather than a fully accurate
scale model. Warning - this is not a toy – the ceramic is fragile and will
break on impact! Smaller components like props and tail surfaces will break if
handled roughly. Completely handmade and glazed in Ireland. Hand finished in
enamel.
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