Even though 1/72 is not my preferred scale I will be buying the new Be2c and Eindecker, to show support for Airfix's decision to return to WW1 subjects. Let's not forget Airfix produced a line of 1/72 WW1 kits from the mid 1950s to the early 70s, and some like the Handley Page 0/400 and Sopwith Pup are still gems even now.
I understand Airfix's hesitancy in committing big money back into a niche market because let's face it, WW1 is not a big money spinner for mainstream companies which can make a lot more from a Spitfire or 109 than from a WW1 subject. What we as modellers can do is encourage them by buying the new kits and also urge them to upscale some into 1/48th scale too as they are doing with the Boulton Paul Defiant.
A line of 1/24 WW1 aircraft would be impressive too but given the development costs I think Airfix would go 1/48th scale, or they may expand the 1/72 range which would please an enormous number of WW1 modellers who have been shoved aside by the mania for WnW and other large scale models . But we shouldn't get ahead of them. Airfix are dipping their toes back in the WW1 water. Let's applaud that and support it.
Dave Wilson
Gold Coast
Australia
